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Bariloche to El Chalten: The Best Route

By: Author Sarah McAlister

Two of the the top hiking destinations in Argentina , here’s everything you need to know about how to get from Bariloche to El Chalten. Or visa versa, if you are travelling north from El Chalten to Bariloche.

Spanning five provinces, there’s really only one way to describe the Argentinian side of Patagonia, and that’s massive. And there’s one thing for sure, travelling within it means you’re going to be covering some ground.

Bariloche to El Chalten

The best route for you will come down to two things; cost and time. And there’s basically three ways; bus, plane or car. We’ll cover all three. With information on times, distances and how to buy tickets and how to prepare for your journey.

El Chalten to Bariloche Flight

Hands down, the quickest way to get between El Chalten and Bariloche is to fly. However, do bear in mind that there isn’t an airport in El Chalten. The closest one is 125 miles away in El Calafate. Therefore you will still have a part journey by car or bus.

You can hire or pre-book cars at El Calafate International Airport. Or there’s buses running between El Calafate and El Chalten four times per day at 8am, 1.30pm, 6pm and 9pm. In the opposite direction (from El Chalten to El Calafate) you have 7:30am, 11:00am, 1pm and 6pm.

The journey from El Calafate International Airport to El Chalten takes around 3 hours and the cost is $800 ARG (£14 GBP / $18 USD). There’s a few bus companies running the route. We went with one called CAL-TUR. But there’s also Chalten Travel and Torres Del Paine Travel.

Price wise for a direct flight between Bariloche to El Calafate you are looking at somewhere in the region of £150 GBP /  $195 USD to £200 GBP / $260 USD. Depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book your flight. That’s not including checked baggage costs.

The journey time is 1 hour 45 minutes and the airline is Aerolineas Argentinas. The other slightly cheaper route is to fly via Buenos Aires, but when you start adding on transfer times and time getting to the airport beforehand it’s really not worth it.

How To Get To El Chalten By Car

Another option is to hire a car and drive between Bariloche and El Chalten, down the famous Route 40 Patagonia. The road runs alongside the Andes Mountain Range and stretches the length of the country, totalling 3,107 miles or 5,000 km.

There’s plenty of people who do this, particularly those who choose to hire a camper van. The roads are safe enough but unfortunately not in best conditions in some sections. Particularly on the southern part of the route which you would be driving.

Route 40 Argentina also prone to flooding for part of the route between Bariloche and El Chalten making it impassable. So do make sure that sure than you check this isn’t the case for the time of the year you are travelling because the diversion is long.

The drive from Bariloche to El Chalten is 864 miles or 1,391 km direct, which is around 17 hours driving time. Which is impossible for one person and a lot for two people when you factor in you would have to sleep in the car on route.

I’m not trying to put you off driving when considering how to get to El Chalten. But having travelled Route 40 Patagonia it would be remiss of us not to point out that it’s pretty damn boring. It’s just miles and miles of straight road and barren landscape with the odd condor.  

So unless you are travelling around Patagonia by campervan, I personally wouldn’t hire a car specifically for this journey. Also bear in mind you should take a 15 minute break for every two hours of driving and not drive more than 8 hours per day.

Bus From Bariloche to El Chalten

The cheapest way to travel between Bariloche and El Chalten is to take a bus. It takes a minimum of 24 hours so it’s an overnight journey. And I say minimum because as mentioned above, if Route 40 Argentina is flooded the diversion adds another good few hours on.

There’s only one service that we are aware of currently running the Bariloche to El Chalten bus and that’s a company called Marga. We’ve personally done this exact journey and the buses are comfortable and well maintained with a decent amount of space.

Depending on whether you opt to travel semi cama or full cama o the bus from Bariloche to El Chalten, expect to pay between $3,300 ARG (£58 GBP / $76 USD) to $4,700 ARG (£83 GBP / $108 USD).

The semi cama seats are upstairs, with rows of 4 separated by an aisle down the middle. They have arm, leg, and footrests and your seat will recline to an angle of 40 degrees. These are the cheapest seats when considering how to get to El Chalten.

The cama seats are downstairs and have 3 seats in a row, 2 next to each other with the third separated by the aisle. Because of this there is more space and the seats recline further to an angle of 55 degrees. They also have arm, leg, and footrests.

We generally travel semi cama because it’s cheaper and we always find we have enough room. However, if you’re quite tall or a single traveller not keen on sleeping next to someone, cama might make the bus from Bariloche to El Chalten more comfortable for you.

Note that you’ll have to print your tickets off before boarding the bus from El Chalten to Bariloche or visa versa.

We always travel with a filter water bottle. Not only does it stop us getting ill, but it means we’re not killing the planet or wasting money on plastic bottles. The GRAYL Geopress is hands down the best on the market & makes water from virtually any source safe to drink.

Bariloche Bus Station

The bus from Bariloche to El Chalten that we took left early, at 6.30am. So just bear in mind how you are going to get from where you are staying to the Bariloche Terminal on time. We took the number 20 bus from centro at 5:45am and got there just before 6am.

The next one isn’t wasn’t until 7am, so if we’d have missed it we’d have been pretty stuck. Make sure you have an up to date bus timetable. You can get them from the Bariloche Tourism Office on the main square. And that your Sube card needed to take buses in Bariloche had enough credit.

Patagonia Long Distance Travel Tips

We genuinely enjoyed our journey on the bus from Bariloche to El Chalten. It was an adventure. But we were also well prepared. Because the last thing you want is for it just to turn into hours or boredom and hunger.

Here are our top tips to for a long distance bus journeys from Bariloche to El Chalten:

Take plenty of snacks and water. Inclusive of all bus tickets you’ll get some food and drinks. However, the frequency, quality, and size differs with each company, so think ahead when it comes to your belly on your route from El Chalten to Bariloche or visa versa.

Take a battery charger. Most buses in Argentina have USB ports these days, and some have plug outlets. However, more often than not they don’t work or at best are very slow at charging devices. Don’t get caught out with empty batteries. Pack a [easyazon_link keywords=”Anker power bank” locale=”US” tag=”thewholewo04b-20″]portable charge pack[/easyazon_link].

Bring some layers onboard. You might get a blanket and pillow provided. But you also may not. The temperatures on the long distance buses we travelled on in Patagonia tended to be extreme, either freezing cold aircon blasting or the heaters turned up to the max. And don’t forget your [easyazon_link keywords=”travel pillow” locale=”US” tag=”thewholewo04b-20″]travel pillow[/easyazon_link].

Don’t forget earplugs . From the on-board entertainment to other passengers chatting loudly, [easyazon_link keywords=”earplugs” locale=”US” tag=”thewholewo04b-20″]earplugs[/easyazon_link] can make or break how much rest you get. Also consider a [easyazon_link keywords=”sleep mask” locale=”US” tag=”thewholewo04b-20″]sleep mask[/easyazon_link] because if the bus stops in the night to pick up passengers on route, that light switch is getting flicked.

Take your toothbrush. Or at least some mouthwash. Hopefully no explanation needed for this Bariloche to El Chalten bus tip.

Prepare your entertainment. Some buses have a films showing and some have wifi. However it is not guaranteed. We always download a couple of films, spotify playlists and podcasts downloaded. Plus our [easyazon_link keywords=”kindle” locale=”US” tag=”thewholewo04b-20″]kindles[/easyazon_link] at hand. 24 hours is a long time with nothing to do.

Good Reads About Argentina:

Overnight bus journey safety tips.

Keep your baggage ticket safe . If have a big backpack or suitcase, these go underneath the bus and you won’t have access to them during the journey. You’ll get a ticket when it’s loaded on and will have to show that when you get off to reclaim your bag.

Have some change handy. It’s custom to give the baggage handlers a tip for loading and unloading your bags. They’re not employed by the Bariloche or El Chalten bus station, so rely on tips. If you are so tight as not hand over $20 pesos or so, be prepared for an argument.

Keep valuables with you at all times. There are a few stops on the route from Bariloche to El Chalten bus station. Some just to pick people up, others where it’s optional to get off for a short break and others where it’s compulsory for safety to get off while the bus refuels.

Passports. Cash. Electronic devices. Never leave anything that you’d be upset about going missing on the bus from El Chalten to Bariloche or visa versa.

Have a padlock handy. We didn’t witness any issues on any of our bus journeys in Patagonia. But we have on other long distance buses in South America. So while sleeping we always attach our bags to each other or the seat while sleeping so they’re not easily swiped. [easyazon_link keywords=”B074S321XP” locale=”US” tag=”thewholewo04b-20″]These are great[/easyazon_link].

Have your passport to hand. It can be a little alarming the first time the police or army board a bus you are on. But you’ll soon see how common it is for long distances buses to be pulled over for road side checks. They usually just have a quick look around and check ID’s.

Not found the perfect travel camera yet? We have. The Olympus Tough Tg-6 is waterproof, shockproof, dust proof, crush proof & freeze proof. But best of all it takes awesome photos with very little skill required.

Where To Stay In El Chalten

El Chalten is really small so wherever you choose to stay in town will be close to everything you need. And everywhere is within walking distance of El Chalten bus station.

There’s a range of accommodation from basic backpacker hostels to fancier lodgings. But quality can seriously vary and during peak hiking season the best places get booked up real quick.

Here’s our pick of the best places to stay in El Chalten.

Affordable Luxury: Hosteria Kaulem

This El Chalten hotel has rooms with exclusive views of the Fitz Roy Mount. All rooms are heated and have private bathrooms with hairdryers. And there’s a charming lounge with fireplace and library.

They have Wi-Fi throughout. Daily breakfast is bread, fruits, yogurt, cereals, and fresh orange juice. This place is seriously great for a little R&R.

Mid-range: El Alamo

Comfortable rooms at a good price. This El Chalten hotel has heating, private bathrooms and WiFi is available in the common area. Daily breakfast of regional jam, fresh eggs and crusty bread is included.

The location is close to the trailheads and lots of great restaurants and bars. Plus there’s on street parking. This really is a great little place.

Cheap & Cheerful: Hostel Wenüy

This hostel comes with incredible mountain views, a spacious comfy lounge and a beaut of a garden. The shared kitchen is well equipped with two big refrigerators and every room has a shared bathroom.

There’s parking available and free luggage storage. Fellow backpackers consistently review this El Chalten hostel as “clean, laid back and well run”. Oh and did we mention a dart board!

Patagonia Travel Insurance

An adventurers paradise, if you’re travelling around Argentina’s Patagonia you are going to want to make sure you have some good travel insurance in place.

Our go to provider is World Nomads. They have a no bullshit approach to policy wording & have a whole host of activities automatically included as standard.

Get a quick no obligation quote here:

Pin Me For Later…

Yorkshire born & bred, Sarah is a professional blogger who loves to travel. Pushing her boundaries with new adventures is her jam, so you likely won’t find her in one place for too long. Also a serious Marmite addict. 

Thursday 5th of December 2019

Thanks for this lovely article.

I will be doing this route next month, and it looks really lovely.

I am trying to book my ticket on Budbud, but am not sure if the seat is Cama or Semi-Cama. The only description given is that the seat is XL. Do you know which one this might be.

Also, the description states that no checked luggage over 15kg is allowed. Are they strict on this weight limit?

Your advice is greatly appreciated.

Regards Jon

Sarah McAlister

Sunday 8th of December 2019

Thanks so much! Glad you found it helpful.

You'll be able to tell whether the seats are cama or semi cama by how many are in the row when looking at the seat selection diagram.

If there's 4 it's semi-cama, if it's 3 it's cama because they have more space. I've just checked a few dates in Jan for that route myself & the ones I looked at were all cama.

I can't however see a weight limit for luggage, just a size limitation for the checked bag (80cm x 80cm x 30cm). However we've never had a bag weighed or measured on any of the buses in Argentina, so I think you'll be fine. And a lot of the bags that people put on are definitely more than 15kg. The only thing that tends to cause issues is if you don't tip the baggage handlers.

Hope you have a great trip - El Chalten is a beaut.

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Visiting el chalten: all you need to know (2024 guide).

Table of Contents

El Chalten is a beautiful mountain town in the heart of Los Glaciares National Park, one of South America’s most stunning National Parks. Known as the hiking capital of Argentina , El Chalten is one of the most famous hiking destinations in the world.

El Chalten had been at the top of my bucket list for years . I had planned to go in 2020, but a certain pandemic put a stop to that. In 2024, I finally got to spend an entire week in El Chalten as part of a backpacking trip to Argentina . This gave me plenty of time to explore the many hiking trails, test out the best food and discover what else there is to do in the area. It’s become one of my favourite places in the entire world.  

In this guide, I’ve shared everything you need to know about visiting El Chalten. This includes how to get there, the best food, the best hiking trails, and some backpacking tips.

Despite being nestled in the Patagonian Mountains, El Chalten is surprisingly easy to get to and attracts thousands of tourists every year. The town is built around tourism and the main street is lined with bakeries, restaurants, hotels, and bars. Despite being a popular tourist destination, El Chalten is an outdoor lovers’ paradise.

Surrounded by magnificent scenery including the towering Mount Fitz Roy and several glaciers, El Chalten is one of the most stunning places I have ever visited.

Most people who visit El Chalten plan to hike at least one of the famous hiking trails. But if you’re not a fan of hiking, El Chalten is still well worth a quick visit. The town is surrounded by spectacular scenery and there’s a selection of other outdoor activities on offer.

One of my favourite things about El Chalten is the atmosphere. It’s like a ski town, but for hiking instead. As everyone returns from their hikes, the bars fill up with people drinking and making the most of the happy hours. It’s a fantastic spot and I’m already planning my return.

Related read: Visiting El Calafate as well? Plan the perfect Patagonia itinerary

How to get to El Chalten? (Without a car)

Getting to El Chalten without a car is very straightforward. Patagonia has an extensive bus network connecting all the major visitor spots.

For most people heading to El Chalten, the easiest route is flying to El Calafate and getting a coach, shuttle, or taxi from there. The drive from El Calafate to El Chalten takes about 2 ½ hours. The coaches can collect you directly from El Calafate Airport or the town centre.

I suggest booking your bus through Bus Bud – this website is the best way to book buses in Patagonia.

Several companies operate this route, including El Chalten Travel, Taqsa Marga, and Cal-Tur. Honestly, they are all pretty much the same. I would choose the bus that suits your schedule rather than worrying about which company to choose.

Sit on the bus’s left side for the best views. If you’re lucky enough to drive to El Chalten on a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most incredible scenery. Unfortunately, the buses don’t make any stops for photos.  

During the peak season, there are several flights a day to El Calafate from Buenos Aires , Ushuaia, and Bariloche. In the winter, there are fewer flights and generally only from Buenos Aires.

El Calafate is also well-connected by bus to other destinations in the area, including Rio Gallegos, Bariloche, and Puerto Natales (if coming from Torres Del Paine National Park). Just be prepared for some long bus rides!

If you do want to hire a car, you can pick this up at the El Calafate airport. It’s a very easy drive with paved roads. You’ll also be able to stop at the viewpoints.

Tip : don’t miss visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier which is close to El Calafate. It’s one of the most breathtaking things I have ever seen in all my travels. There’s even the opportunity to hike on the glacier .

How many days to spend in El Chalten?

There are a few things to consider when deciding how long to spend in El Chalten. For some, two days is plenty of time. For others, a week isn’t long enough. I spent a week in El Chalten and could easily have stayed longer.

If you’re a keen hiker, I’d suggest spending at least five days in El Chalten. This will allow you to make the most of the hiking trails, have a rest day, and be flexible with the weather.

If you’re not planning to do much hiking, then two or three nights is plenty of time.

The weather is another factor to consider when deciding how long you want to spend in El Chalten. The chances of having several consecutive days of sunshine and no wind are very low.

While it’s all very well and good to say you’re happy to hike in bad weather, this can be dangerous in Patagonia. I had to turn around on a hike as it was too windy. An experienced hiker ahead of me told me he had nearly got blown off a ridge. This is why it’s a good idea to give yourself some extra days to be flexible with the weather.

Out of my seven days in El Chalten, only four were good for hiking (which, according to the staff at my hostel, is pretty good going). 

Here’s how long I suggest spending in El Chalten:

For avid hikers who want to hit as many trails as possible : 5-7 days

For those who want to just do the main hikes: 3 days

For those who don’t plan to do any long hikes: 1 or 2 days

Best time of year to visit El Chalten

The best time to visit El Chalten is during the summer months of December through March . While it can be very windy during these months, the days are generally a good temperature for hiking.

It’s important to note that the summer is the peak season in Patagonia. Prices will be higher, accommodation booked out well ahead of time and the hiking trails can often be crowded.

To avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder season months of November or April .

It’s technically possible to visit El Chalten during the winter months (May to October), but many tourist services will be closed. The snow in the area can be extreme and it’s unlikely any of the hiking trails will be accessible (unless you’re a very experienced hiker with the correct equipment).

Solo travel in El Chalten

If you’re questioning solo travel in Patagonia , don’t worry! I backpacked around Argentine Patagonia as a solo female traveller with no issues whatsoever.

El Chalten is a very friendly, welcoming town, and no one cares that you’re alone. I found the hostels to be social, so you’ll likely meet people.

Of course, hiking alone can be a scary prospect and it’s reasonable to be a little nervous. I did all my hikes in El Chalten by myself and never once felt unsafe. The popular trails are filled with hikers so you’re never fully alone.

When hiking by yourself , it’s important to let someone know where you’re going, even if it’s a friend back home. Make sure you have a map of the trail downloaded offline ( AllTrails is great for this) and take plenty of food and water. The mountains in El Chalten can be dangerous so always stick to the main hiking trails.

Patagonia turned out to be one of my favourite destinations for solo travel. There’s something so special about being out in those mountains alone and having the freedom to go at your own pace. Related read: Solo Hiking Tips

Where to stay in El Chalten

There is no shortage of accommodation in El Chalten. Most buildings in the town accommodate tourists in one way or another. You’ll find a range of hostels, luxury hotels, bed & breakfasts, and cabin-style accommodations (even tiny homes!).

I would like to say there is something to suit every budget in El Chalten, but unfortunately, the prices here are very high! Even in the off-season, prices can feel extortionate compared to some destinations.

I ended up staying in a budget hostel reminiscent of a tea house in Nepal. It had a lovely atmosphere but was very basic… yet it was one of the most expensive hostels I’ve ever stayed in! Just be prepared to pay a lot for what feels like very little, especially in the high season.

Here are a few ideas for where to stay in El Chalten.

There are several fantastic hostels in El Chalten. I stayed in the Refugio El Chalten Hostel . As I mentioned above, it was very basic but felt sufficient. It had a great atmosphere. The Rancho Aparte Hostel is another popular choice for backpackers in Patagonia.

Mid-range in El Chalten is certainly on the more expensive side, but some popular options include Hosteria Senderos and Hotel Poincenot .

Destino Sur Hotel & Spa de Montaña is one of the nicest hotels in El Chalten. It’s a little bit away from the centre, but easily walkable to all the restaurants and bars. Los Cerros del Chaltén Boutique Hotel is another great spot in a more convenient location.

There are several “Estancias” close to El Chalten. An Estancia is a ranch or farm, but they often have accommodations for guests.

I wish I had got to experience an Estancia on my trip, but unfortunately, they don’t come cheap.

Estancia Bonanza is one of the most famous Estancias near El Chalten. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included too which is a bonus! You’ll need a car to get there as it’s well away from the town.

Something unique

For a unique stay, consider the Patagonia Eco Domes . Each dome has a bed and boasts epic views of Fitz Roy.  Meals are also included (but you’ll need a car to reach here). Chalten Camp offers a similar experience.

Camping in El Chalten

Camping is a popular choice and budget-friendly option in the El Chalten area. You can hire equipment in the town itself or bring your own tent.

There are several campsites in the town of El Chalten, as well as campsites on the famous hiking trails.

Check out this full guide to camping in El Chalten .

Day trip to El Chalten from El Calafate

It’s entirely possible to visit El Chalten as a day trip from El Calafate. The mountain town is only 215km from El Calafate and the drive takes about 2 ½ hours.

You can drive yourself by renting a car, or opt to join an organised tour.

During the summer months in Patagonia, the days are long and the sun doesn’t set till after 10 pm. This gives you plenty of time to drive to El Chalten, hike, and drive back to El Calafate.

If you’re choosing to join a tour, I suggest this organised tour which gives you time to go hiking. It won’t be long enough for Fitz Roy, but you can potentially squeeze in Laguna Torre or Laguna Capri.

I much preferred El Chalten over El Calafate. If you can, try and spend a couple of days in El Chalten. It’s a magnificent spot.

Where to eat in El Chalten

I’m not sure where to start with this one. Everything I ate in El Chalten was delicious. I had the best pizza, the best sandwich, the best pasta, and the best cake of my life. Not what I was expecting in a small mountain town in the middle of Patagonia…

I could sit and write for hours about all the amazing places to try, but here are a few of my favourites.

El Chalten cafes

There’s no shortage of cafes in El Chalten. I had some of the best coffee and pastries of my life in the cafes there. The main street of San Martin is lined with cafes and bakeries, and I didn’t have a single bad experience.

Tip : most cafes open around 8 am, so if you’re hitting the hiking trails before this, you will have to go without a coffee.

For tasty coffee, I recommend trying La Nieve Café or Lo De Haydee (they do great cinnamon buns!).

If you’re after a bigger breakfast, brunch, or lunch, I can’t recommend Brunch enough. The food here was great. It’s off the main street as well so was a little quieter than other spots.

Mathilda Resto also has a great brunch menu that is very reasonably priced. For some cake, try Vouna… best carrot cake of my life. They also sell cheese and ham here, which is a bit nicer than what I found in the supermarkets.

El Chalten restaurants and bars

If you’re after a bigger meal, you’ll be pleased to hear there are plenty of restaurants to choose from in El Chalten.

For pizza, Laborum is a MUST. I don’t say this lightly; this was the BEST pizza I’ve ever eaten in my entire life. Fair enough, I had just done a 30km hike… but the reviews on Google say it all. It’s an absolute must while you’re in El Chalten. Get there early as it’s very small and has limited tables.

Patagonicus is another great spot for pizza (and Italian food). They serve up a range of pasta and do half portions of pizzas. The prices here are reasonable too.

Speaking of Italian food, don’t miss a trip to Maffia . This small Italian restaurant in El Chalten serves up homemade pasta.

If you’re after one of the best sandwiches or burgers in El Chalten, visit La Lomiteria . This fast-food spot makes incredible sandwiches and burgers. They were so delicious I went there twice. They have some great vegetarian options as well.

The main street of El Chalten is lined with bars that serve food. Don’t miss Bandidos Patagonicos for easy pub-style food (and great craft beer), La Vinerua Grill for steak and Chica Ramen for your Japanese food fix (yes, they have a Japanese restaurant in El Chalten).

Finally, if you’re vegetarian, there are several fantastic options. I had lunch at Curcuma Cocina Vegana where everything is plant-based. If you prefer to cook for yourself, stop by the Puentes Amarillos store . This supermarket is focused on health foods with plenty of vegetarian options. This includes tofu and hummus (plus the only place in El Chalten where I could find pesto!).

Hiking in El Chalten

El Chalten is the hiking capital of Argentina, so it goes without saying that one of the best things to do in El Chalten is… hiking!

While the focus is mainly on the famous Fitz Roy Hike (Laguna de Los Tres), there are an array of other impressive hiking trails.

If you’re not a fan of hiking, there are a few short hikes in El Chalten as well, so there’s something to suit everyone.

I’ve written a whole guide on the best hikes in El Chalten , but here’s a quick overview.

Mount Fitz Roy (Laguna de Los Tres)

This is one of the most popular hikes in Argentina and all of South America (and for good reason!). Honestly, if you only do one hike while you’re in El Chalten, make it this one.

The hike gets you as close as possible to the incredible Mount Fitz Roy and the glacial lake of Laguna de Los Tres. It’s truly one of the most beautiful hikes I have ever done anywhere in the entire world.

The hike is a big one – it’s 13.7 miles (22km) return with over 1000m (3500 feet) in elevation gain (a big chunk of that is in the last km!). It can take 7-9 hours to complete the hike, so it certainly isn’t one for beginners.

It’s a well-marked and straightforward hike. The main challenge is the final km, where you gain 400ft of elevation. It’s incredibly steep and there are lots of loose rocks and gravel. I promise it’s worth it.

Laguna Capri

If the Fitz Roy (Lagune De Los Tres) hike sounds like too much of a challenge for you, you can hike just part of the trail to Laguna Capri.

This beautiful loop walk takes you to Laguna Capri where there are some beautiful views of Fitz Roy. The hike is only 6 miles (10km) and you are rewarded with some incredible views. It takes most people around 4 hours (round trip) to do this hike.

Laguna Torre

The other major day hike in El Chalten is Laguna Torre . This hike takes you out to a beautiful glacial lake where you’re rewarded with views of the Cerro Torre mountain and Glacier Torre.

The hike is 11 miles (18km) long but is flat for the most part (once the first hour is out of the way anyway). It’s an incredibly popular hike as it’s much easier than the nearby Fitz Roy Hike, with almost equally as beautiful views (sorry – but it doesn’t get much better than the views from the Fitz Roy Hike).

For those who want to do a shorter version of the Laguna Torre hike, you can hike about an hour to a viewpoint of the mountain and glacier before turning around.

Chorillo Del Salto

This short hike to a beautiful waterfall is the easiest in El Chalten. You can either walk the flat trail from the town itself or drive to a nearby parking lot (from here it’s a few minutes walk to the waterfall).  

It took me about an hour each way from the town, but it’s completely flat making it nice and easy.

The trail begins at the North end of Avenida San Martin, where you’ll also find the trailhead for the Mount Fitz Roy / Laguna de Los Tres hike.

Mirador de Los Condores

This short hike is another popular one in El Chalten. It takes you to a viewpoint above the town, where you’re rewarded with incredible views of Fitz Roy (on a clear day) and the town itself. If you’re lucky, you’ll also get to see some condors flying.

The hike is only 1.6 miles (2.6km) long. It’s a bit steep, but most people reach the viewpoint within 30 minutes.

This is another popular hike with lots of people walking up to the viewpoint. Try and get on the trail as early as you can to avoid the crowds. I also recommend walking the loop to Mirador Las Aguilas. The views from there are incredible and there are way fewer people.

Tip : if you’re looking for multi-day hikes, consider hiking the Huemul Circuit .

Check back soon for my full hiking guide for El Chalten.

Other things to do in El Chalten (that’s not hiking)

While hiking is the main draw to El Chalten, there are several other exciting things to do in the area. The main street has a few agencies selling various tours and outdoor activities.

Here are some of the top things to do in El Chalten that don’t involve hiking.

Kayaking (or river rafting)

You can kayak down the beautiful Rio de las Vueltas, a glacial river surrounded by impressive scenery. The tour is sold at several tour agencies in the town.

For those who want something a bit more adventurous, there’s also the option to go rafting.

Horse riding

Have you been to Patagonia if you haven’t been horseback riding? Doing it in the area surrounding Mount Fitz Roy is a bucket list-worthy activity.

There are horse riding tours for all abilities available in the town including at the famous Estancia Bonanza.

Mountain Biking

Estancia Bonanza is also home to a stunning mountain bike trail . Spend two hours cycling through the incredible scenery.

It’s also common for people to hire bikes and cycle to Lago Del Desierto.

Visit Lago Del Desierto  

This beautiful lake is just over an hour’s drive from El Chalten. You can drive there yourself and walk one of the hiking trails or join an organised tour.

Many of the tours also include a boat trip. You’ll find the tour being sold in the town of El Chalten.

As mentioned above, cycling from El Chalten to Lago Del Desierto is a popular option. There are some incredible views along the way. I hope to do this when I return to El Chalten.

Glacier Ice Trekking and Via Ferrata

If you want something more challenging than your regular glacier walk, consider trekking across the Cagliero Glacier.

You’ll need to join an organised tour to do this , but it’s certainly a unique activity.

The tour consists of a regular hike, rock climbing, via Ferrata and finally, a glacier hike. No experience is required but it’s a tough activity so you’ll need a good fitness level.

Wander the town

El Chalten is a cute little town with a unique, charming feel. It’s almost like a ski town, except for hiking instead. Once everyone finishes their hikes, the bars and restaurants fill up with people making the most of the readily available happy hours.

I spent a day in the town café, café-hopping and wandering around. There are a few nice souvenir shops and an art gallery.  

Related read: did you know there is a petrified forest near El Chalten? Find out all you need to know about visiting La Leona Petrified Forest .

Do you need a car in El Chalten?

No, you don’t need to rent a car in El Chalten. I debated hiring one, and I’m glad I didn’t. All the main hiking trails are well within walking distance from anywhere in the town. There are also taxis available if you do need one.

Of course, if you want to venture further afield then a car may come in handy. But I don’t think it’s necessary at all. You can walk the length of the entire town in about 15 minutes.

The only real downside of being without a car is being unable to stop on the drive into El Chalten. This is meant to be one of the most beautiful drives in the world. The main buses won’t stop, but some of the private shuttle buses do.

El Chalten packing list

This packing list for El Chalten is for those planning to hit the hiking trails. I’ve left out the obvious but shared a few must-haves.

• Layers! Even if you’re visiting El Chalten in the summer, it can still be cold (especially at night). The summer is also known for its incredibly strong winds.  Make sure you have plenty of layers for your hikes. This includes long-sleeved shirts, thin fleeces, and a down jacket.
• Hiking boots . Many of the hikes in the El Chalten area are serious hikes. You’ll need sensible hiking shoes with strong ankle support. (Sidenote: I saw a girl attempt Fitz Roy in Converse; she did not have fun on the rocks and gravel!)
• Windproofs and waterproofs . The weather in Patagonia can be extreme, especially the wind and rain. Make sure to pack a waterproof coat and waterproof trousers. Try and find a jacket that’s also windproof to keep that chill away.
• Cooler clothes . Patagonia can be cold and wet, but it can also be very warm during the day. Trust me, when you’re on a hike, and that sun is blazing, it can get HOT. Make sure you’re prepared for all weather.
• Sun protection . Don’t forget a sun hat and SPF when visiting El Chalten.
• Hiking poles . Some of the hikes in El Chalten can be very steep on loose terrain. It’s not a bad idea to use hiking poles, especially if you’ve had knee issues in the past. You can bring them with you or rent them in the town.
• Day bag . If you’re tackling one of the longer hikes in El Chalten, you’re going to need a bag to carry your food and water.
• Lunch bags/Tupperware . You’ll need to carry lunch with you on the hikes. I suggest bringing ziplock bags or reusable lunch containers.

Still struggling with what to pack? I have a FULL Patagonia Packing List ready and waiting.

Other tips for your trip to El Chalten

Bring cash! You’ll struggle without cash in El Chalten. While many El Chalten restaurants, shops and hotels do accept card, it’s not uncommon for their system to go down due to poor reception. Additionally, you’ll find the conversion rate is much higher when using a card. Hotels will add a charge to card transactions. Bring plenty of cash (get your cash before coming to El Chalten).

Withdrawing cash in Argentina

I recommend using Western Union Bank to withdraw money in Argentina.

ATMs in Argentina have small withdrawal limits and high fees. One bank only let me withdraw USD 10 and expected me to pay a USD 8 fee for doing so!

Western Union saved the day. You send them money and then go into any branch to collect it. There is no limit (in Buenos Aires), and your first withdrawal is free. There are no Western Unions in El Chalten. I’d advise withdrawing money in Buenos Aires. There is a branch in El Calafate but it often runs out of money and has a limit.

Expect all types of weather . The weather in Patagonia is extreme and it’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a day. Even if visiting Patagonia in the summer months, bring plenty of layers and waterproof clothing.

Related read: all you need to know about visiting Buenos Aires

Be prepared for high prices . El Chalten is not cheap. I stayed in one of the most basic hostels I’ve ever stayed in, yet it was also the most expensive. Food prices are also incredibly high. A dinner out can easily set you back around USD 15. The prices in the supermarkets are also high. Alcohol prices are on the more reasonable side, with most bars offering a happy hour with a selection of craft beers.

There’s poor Wi-Fi . Even the “best” wi-fi in El Chalten is bad. It went down altogether several times when I visited. It’s also worth noting that the 4G reception is poor. Everything takes a long time to load. Don’t expect to make video calls or stream movies while you’re in El Chalten. 

Hit the hiking trails early . Some of the popular hiking trails in El Chalten get painfully busy. In the summer months, the days are long and most people seem to start their hikes mid-morning. Try and get on the trails as early as possible to avoid the rush.

Summary: is El Chalten worth visiting?

If there is only one place you visit in Patagonia, make it El Chalten. This incredible little mountain town is well worth visiting. It’s completely won my heart.

El Chalten had been on my bucket list for years and it did anything but disappoint. This charming town has a wonderful atmosphere and is an outdoor lover’s paradise.

Even if you’re not the biggest fan of hiking, El Chalten is still worth visiting. The scenery surrounding the town is beautiful and you could easily fill a day by doing a short hike and wandering the town.

I can’t wait to be back in El Chalten soon.

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El Chaltén in 2 days, the best itinerary

In this article, we invite you to explore an exciting itinerary through El Chaltén in 2 days . The charming village, set amidst majestic mountains and dominated by the imposing presence of Mount Fitz Roy, is hailed as the epicentre of trekking in Argentina.

The history of the name El Chaltén goes back to the Tehuelche roots , who named it “smoking mountain” in their ancestral language. This name is attributed to the mysterious cloud cover that often envelops the majestic Mount Fitz Roy, leading local tribes to believe that it was an active volcano . Today, at an impressive 3405 metres high, Fitz Roy remains the epitome of beauty in this region.

El Chaltén, a small mountain village, is nowadays a complete tourist destination , offering all the necessary services for an unforgettable experience. This Patagonian jewel is the perfect getaway for those who wish to complement their adventure in El Calafate and immerse themselves in days of exploration and connection with nature.

Table of Contents

How many days are needed to visit El Calafate and El Chaltén?

If you are going to visit the two cities to see the Perito Moreno glacier , do the navigation in Los Glaciares National Park, and then visit El Chaltén to do the main trekking, you will need at least five to seven days .

El Chaltén can also be done on a two-day excursion from El Calafate, just to trek to the Laguna Los Tres and see Fitz Roy up close .

How many days are recommended to visit El Chaltén alone?

The number of days recommended to visit El Chaltén may vary depending on your availability, whether you are only visiting from El Calafate , or if you want to hike all the trails available from the town.

To fully enjoy the natural beauty, do some hiking and experience the relaxed atmosphere of the town, most people usually opt for a stay of at least 2 to 4 days in El Chaltén .

In this article we will focus on what not to miss in E l Chaltén in 2 days .

What not to miss in El Chaltén in 2 days?

Day 1 : trekking to Los Tres lagoon to contemplate the majestic Fitz Roy.

Day 2 : Excursion to Desierto lake and Huemul Glacier

Day 1, the best trekking to do in El Chaltén in 2 days, los Tres lagoon

You will have to dedicate practically the whole day to this trekking in El Chalten, the ascent is a bit hard, especially the last kilometre, but the effort is worth it.

The trail to los Tres laggon, one of the highlights of El Chaltén, gives you the option of starting your journey from two different points: the “ Senda el Pilar ,” located about 17 kilometres from the centre of town, or the “ Sendero Laguna Capri “. A recommended strategy is to start from the Senda el Pilar and return along the Sendero Laguna Capri , which will allow you to appreciate all the spectacular scenery that this trek has to offer.

The first stop is at the Piedras Blancas viewpoint, whose views of the Piedras Blancas glacier will dazzle you.

Continuing along the route, almost flat, you will reach the Poincenot Camp , a perfect place to stop, recharge your batteries and rest before continuing towards the lagoon.

As you progress, the majestic spires of the hills will begin to reveal themselves in the distance, giving you the perfect motivation to tackle the last stage of the trail , which involves a medium-high difficulty ascent.

The final point of the trek is the arrival at the dazzling Laguna de los Tres . From here, the views of Mount Fitz Roy, weather permitting, are fabulous. Its eternal layers of snow and the crystal clear water lagoon reflecting the silhouette of the mountain are one of the most beautiful landscapes you will find in Patagonia Argentina .

From here, you also have a view of the Laguna Sucia, and you can even walk along a path to some waterfalls to get a better look at it.

The way back is along the same path , but this time more quickly as you go downhill.

Day 2: Excursion to Desierto Lake and Huemul Glacier

On the last day of the 2-day itinerary in El Chaltén you have to do the excursion to Desierto Lake and the Huemul Glacier.

Within the majestic Lago del Desierto Provincial Reserve, a protected area of great importance, lies the Lago del Desierto , a natural jewel that requires an entrance fee to access. This reserve has a fundamental role in the conservation of biodiversity, especially for the protection of the endangered huemul deer, native to the Patagonian forests.

There are two alternatives once you get to Lago del Desierto, for us it is advisable to do both.

The first is the navigation along the southern shore of the lake, a short walk to contemplate the mountains, the turquoise water of the lake and to see from afar the majestic Huemul and Crestón glaciers . Catamarans are available during the summer season for the excursion.

The navigation reaches its culminating point at the beginning of the path that leads to the Vespignani Glacier . In addition to observing the glacier up close, you will have fabulous views of the north face of Fitz Roy .

The second activity is a short trekking to the Huemul glacier through the Patagonian forests. Although the last part of the trail is a little difficult, the reward is the viewpoint to contemplate the glacier and the lagoon of light blue and green tones that lies at its feet.

📷 Book a transfer to Laguna del Desierto to enjoy on your own and trek to the Huemul glacier .

How to get to El Chaltén from El Calafate

There are three options to get to El Chalten from El Calafate:

• Renting a car
• Or book your transfer from El Calafate to El Chalten from here .

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The Essential El Chalten Trekking and Hiking Guide

El Chalten – A tiny mountain town nestled in a beautiful corner of Argentine Patagonia.  Whether you’re looking for pleasant day hikes and comfy mattress at night, ormulti-day treks with camping under the stars, the El Chalten trekking and hiking options definitely offer your flavor and style of outdoor adventure.

Unfortunately, with all of these accessible, free campsites, amazing trails to walk and beautiful sights to see, it can be hard figuring out which of the El Chalten hikes are for you and how to patch them together into your perfect trek . Don’t worry, we’re to help you plan your perfect El Chalten hiking experience – comfortably between mountains and glaciers, covered by pure, starry nights.

Read on to discover the best sites to see in El Chalten on your hikes, the best itinerary for trekking through Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, and everything else you need to know to make the most of your time in this little corner of Patagonia.

Note: This article may include affiliate links that pay for the cost of writing, at no cost to you

Contents of this Guide to El Chalten Trekking and Hiking

• Map of the Sights and Campsites around El Chalten

Cerro Fitz Roy & Laguna De Los Tres

Laguna capri, gacier and lake piedras blancas, laguna and glacier torre miradors, mirador cerro torre (near chalten), loma de pliegue tumbado, the el chalten multi-day trek and camping itinerary, the el chalten day hikes, guided tours around el chalten, day 1: el chalten to camp laguna capri, day 2: camp laguna capri to camp poincenot.

• Day 3: Camp Poincenot to Camp D’Agostini
• Day 4: Camp D’Agostini to El Chalten

Day Hike 1: Cerro Fitz Roy and Lago de Los Tres

Day hike 2: mirador lago torres, day hike 3: pliegue tumbado, the packing list for el chalten: what to bring, buy, and rent, getting to el chalten – from el calafate and bariloche, notes, tips, and info (atms & cash, water, gear tips).

A Note on the Imagery – I’m partnering with other travelers to share their adventures and stories through pictures, so feel free to learn about other adventurers and wanderers by clicking the picture credits!

Map of the Major Sights in El Chalten and Parque Nacional Los Glaciares

The Major Sites to see during your El Chalten Trekking Experience:

All worthwhile hikes revolve around beautiful viewpoints, relaxing and peaceful campsites, and pleasant trails to hike between them all. El Chalten has all three in spades.

The three major, free campsites in the park (Laguna Capri, Poincenot, and Di Agostini) connect a network of trails that pass by a handful of epic “miradors” or viewpoints of quintessential Patagonian views of rock spires, pristine mountain lakes, and glaciers.  This makes planning easy because you simply plan to hike to the viewpoints and between campsites.

The viewpoints for most of these sites lie along the trails between campsites with a few special viewpoints requiring side hikes, such as the Cerro Fitz Roy hike and the Lago de Los Tres hike. 

The major sites to see in El Chalten Los Glaciares National Park are:

• Cerro Fitz Roy and Laguna de Los Tres (at the base of Cerro Fitz Roy)
• Laguna, Glacier, and Cerro Torre

The “must see” in Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, Cerro Fitz Roy is an epic and beautiful rock spire that has inspired many trekkers and mountaineers.  These days, Cerro Fitz Roy is most notable for being the emblem for the brand Patagonia, butits beauty goes far beyond that.

This mountain was previously the namesake of the park as “Cerro Chalten”, meaning “smoking mountain”. The unique topography of this Patagonian landscape combined with moisture and varying temperatures from the constant presence of ice and snow as well as the nearby glaciers cause steam and clouds to roll from the top off Cerro Fitz Roy, giving the appearance that it is smoking and giving the original name to the peak and the nearby town of El Chalten.

Next to Cerro Fitz Roy sit two other epic spires, Cerro Torre and Cerro Poincenot, ultimately making up “the three” or “the tres” and giving the name to the lake at the base of Cerro Fitz Roy, “Lago de Los Tres”. 

The view of these three legendary peaks from the shore of the lake is a site not to be missed in the park. 

The Cerro Fitz Roy hike makes the El Chalten experience a great alternative to the more expensive and congested Torres del Paine Paine treks by adding similar views and hiking experiences at a fraction of the cost.

Jump to the Cerro Fitz Roy Day Hike or seeing Cerro Fitz Roy on a multi-day trek of El Chalten

A picturesque lake on the way to Cerro Fitz Roy with a pleasant campsite and peaceful views.

An optional side hike north of Campamento Poincenot (near the Cerro Fitz Roy hike) to a peaceful lake and glacier view

A view and hike that nearly equal the Cerro Fitz Roy hike.  As the Cerro Fitz Roy hike offers epic views of mountains, these two spots offer beautiful views of the Glacier Torre and a “peak” into the amazingly huge Southern Patagonian Ice Field.

A viewpoint on the way to miradors Laguna and Glacier Torre (from El Chalten) that is claimed to be the second most beautiful in the national park

This view is an epic, panoramic view of the Parque Nacional Los Glaciares and the El Chalten area.  Getting to this viewpoint takes you on one of the tougher hikes, one that does not go into the valley, but rewards with extraordinary views.

Read on for how to connect these viewpoints and campsites into a nice multi-day trek or separate them into the perfect day hike

How to see the sites around El Chalten

Camping and trekking around el chalten.

If you’re a fan of sleeping under the stars, opt for the multi-day trekking, camping around El Chalten in Parque Nacional Los Glaciares for 4 days and 3 nights of camping El Chalten . 

Tourist traffic is light, the nights are peaceful, and the extra time (not spent hiking back to El Chalten) makes for relaxing time around the fire with a book and “easier” hikes for sunrise to Cerro Fitz Roy and Laguna de Los Tres.  The fact that the campsites are free will help also you save that hard earned cash too making El Chalten trekking perfect for budget travelers and a great, cheaper alternative to Torres del Paine National Park.

Learn more in our article “ Camping El Chalten ”

Day Hiking From El Chalten

On the other hand, if you prefer traveling lightly and quickly, and prefer to stay in town (or sleep on an actual mattress), day hikes are another perfect option. 

Campsites and viewpoints are roughly 2-3 hours from El Chalten making for a relatively easy, yet enjoyable and beautiful, round trip if you leave early.  This will leave you the evenings to enjoy the creature comforts of electricity, real coffee in the mornings, and restaurants preparing delicious meals – like “cordero Patagonico” (Patagonian Lamb).

**Read on for the best plans for day hikes and multi-day itineraries**

Day 3: Camp Poincenot to Camp Di Agostini

The first day of the El Chalten hiking circuit leaves from center of El Chalten to the east for Camp Laguna Capri, located just off the beautiful shore of Lake Capri.  The hike will take roughly 2 hours over ~3 miles, going uphill a good portion of the way.

At Laguna Capri, just steps from the campsite, you’ll enjoy a beautiful Patagonian lake view with Cerro Fitz Roy as its backdrop.

If you have time before sundown, drop your pack and set up camp, then hike ~1 hour on a loop to the north that takes you to another, rockier viewpoint of Cerro Fitz Roy, then continues back down to Camp Laguna Capri.

Camp Laguna Capri is a free campsite with camp toilets, but no showers or cooking facilities, so come prepared.  Fresh stream water is available nearby

The following morning, hit the lakeshore Laguna Capri viewpoint for a Cerro Fitz Roy sunrise, then pack up and  prepare to head to Campamento Poincenot, a great base camp for several short hikes to viewpoints, the base of Cerro Fitz Roy, Piedras Blancas, and other great views

Day 1 Rollup:

• Sites along the way: Alternate Cerro Fitz Roy Miradors
• Length: 2 hours and ~3 miles
• Tips: Wake up early the following morning for sunrise at the Laguna Capri viewpoint
• Read our Camping El Chalten for more campsite information
• Side Hikes from Camp Laguna Capri: Mirador Laguna Capri, Mirador Cerro Fitz Roy

Day 2, pack up in the morning after a Laguna Capri sunrise view and prepare to hike 1.5 hours and ~4.5 kilometers east to Campamento Poincenot.  Though there are no particular side hikes along the way, the hikes from Camp Poincenot and the viewpoints they lead to are amazing.  Camp Poincenot is somewhat of a “basecamp” for the hike up to the base of Cerro Fitz Roy/Lago de Los Tres making the trek up much shorter than from El Chalten, allowing hikers to catch Fitz Roy and her sister peaks by sunrise.

Once you get to Camp Poincenot, set up camp and consider hiking north to Mirador Piedras Blancas and Mirador Glacier Piedras Blancas, both beautiful views are only a 1.5 mile and 45-minute walk (one way) before returning to Campamento Poincenot for the night

The following morning, make the hike up “Sendero Fitz Roy” (the trail to Cerro Fitz Roy) to Lago de Los Tres at the base of Cerro Fitz Roy.  This hike is only 2km long but the ascent is over 400 meters vertically, so plan for the hike to take 1 hour to 1.5 hours.  Absolutely bring a headlamp (with extra batteries) to keep your hands free, and I recommend bringing a stove to make some coffee or hot chocolate during sunrise – its always a treat.

Once you’ve enjoyed your sunrise, hike back down to Campamento Poincenot, pack up, and head towards Campamento D’Agostini.

• Length from Camp Laguna Capri to Campamento Poincenot: 1.5 hours, 4.5 kilometers
• Tips: Bring a headlamp with extra batteries, plan 1.5 hours for the Lago de Los Tres hike, bring coffee
• For more info read our Guide to Camping El Chalten: Camp Poinenot
• Side Hikes: Laguna de Los Tres/base of Cerro Fitz Roy, Mirador Glacier Piedras Blancas, Laguna Torre, Mirador del Torre

For the final day of the trek you’ll make the 11km, 3-hour trek down to Campamento D’Agostini.  This campsite is lightly wooded and set back from the lake Laguna Torres. 

When you arrive at Campamento D’Agostini drop your backpack, set up camp, and load up your daypack for a quick ~2.5km hike to two “miradors”. 

The first stop on your hike will be Mirador Lago Torres, offering a great view of Lake Torres.  After a brief stop, continue on 2km to Mirador Maestri, on the north side of the lake, for an otherworldly view of Glacier Torres, which peaks out from the Southern Patagonia ice field.  I highly recommend looking at a map to get an idea of how big this glacier and ice field are. 

After some great pictures, pack up and head back to Camp D’Agostini and call it a night.

Consider waking up to catch the mirador you passed earlier, Mirador Lago Torres, by sunrise.

• Length from Campamento Poincenot to Campamento D’Agostini: 3 hours, 11 kilometers
• Tips: Do the short Mirador Maestri hike
• For more info read our Guide to Camping El Chalten: Camp D’Agostini
• Side Hikes from Camp D’Agostini: Mirador Lago Torres, Mirador Maestri

Day 4: Camp Di Agostini to El Chalten

The final day of the El Chalten trekking circuit takes you back to El Chalten over a 6 mile, 3-hour hike with another mirador of Cerro Torre and the Mirador of Cascada Margarita (Margarita Waterfall) along the way.

The Cerro Torre viewpoint on the way back to El Chalten is said to be one of the two best views in the whole park, so be sure not to miss it.

• Sites along the way: Mirador Cerro Torre, Mirador Cascada Margarita
• Length from Camp D’Agostini to El Chalten: ~6 miles, 3 hours
• Tips: Wakeup for Mirador Lago Torres y sunrise

For those that prefer to travel light (leaving their heavy bags, food, and gear at home), or prefer to spend their nights in civilization, the El Chalten day hikes are perfect.  As long as you don’t mind starting early and an ~8-10 hour day of walking, you can experience the best of El Chalten and Parque Nacional Los Glaciares in two single day hikes.  Whichever day hike you opt for, be sure to start no later than 7AM-8AM to avoid the need to rush or arriving back in El Chalten after nightfall.

• Day Hike 1: Cerro Torre base and Laguna de Los Tres (24km, 9 hrs)
• Day Hike 2: Mirador Lago Torres and Glacier Torre (23 miles, 9 hrs)
• Day Hike 3: Pliegue Tumbado (19km, 8 hrs)

This is the must-do hike of El Chalten.  The base of rock spires, at Lago de Los Tres, offers the best view in the park of Cerro Fitz Roy, one the namesake of the park as “Cerro Chalten” (smoking mountain) and made famous by the Patagonia brand.  If you have another 45 minutes/1.5 miles in you (one way), be sure to add the Mirador Glaciar Piedras Blancas for glacial views on your day hike.

To make this trek, plan to leave early as you’ll be hiking for 8-9 hours over ~24km.  Leave via Avenida San Martin, where the city of El Chalten ends. 

Time: 1:00 Hours

From here, you’ll hike for about uphill until reaching a river valley view of the De Las Vueltas river.  This image is burned in my mind as one of my quintessential moments, experiences, and views in Patagonia…so enjoy it for me.

Time: 2:30 Hours

Approximately 1.5 hours later you’ll reach a viewpoint of the entire valley with Cerro Fitz Roy as a backdrop, and an information placard indicating Cerro Fitz Roy and the sister peaks.

Time 4:00 Hours                                                               

Approximately 1.5 hours later you will reach Camp Poincenot and nearing the start of “sender Fitz Roy” the hike up to Lago de Los Tres and the base of Cerro Fitz Roy.  The path will ascend for 400 meters for a ~1-hour hike to Laguna de Los Tres

Time 5:00 Hours: Arrive at Laguna de Los Tres

Estimated time to return to El Chalten: 3 to 4 hours

This day hike takes you to the southeast of El Chalten.  Start by leaving El Chalten and following the trail (available on the Maps.Me app) toward Mirador Cascada Margarita, then on to Mirador Cerro Torre which is supposed to be one of the most amazing in the whole park.

From here, continue on to Mirador Lago Torres, just past campamento D’Agostini and on the shore of the lake Laguna Torre.

If you have enough energy and daylight remaining, consider continuing the hike another 2.5 km to Mirador Maestri for an exceptional view of Glacier Torre and Southern Patagonia Ice Field

This day hike takes you to the south of El Chalten for a panoramic view of the entire valley that is unmatched.  Whereas as all of the other hikes go into the valley, this hike climbs above, and the view rewards accordingly.

To make the Pliegue Tumbado viewpoint hike, leave the city toward the west past the National Park Ceferino Fonzo Visitors Center.  Take the trail to the right that leads towards Pliegue Tombado and Laguna Toro / Paso del Viento.

The trail ascends most of the way with views toward Mount Huemul, the Viedma Lake, and the Andes at points. 

Due to altitude in certain places, is exposed to weather and wind so bring a rain jacket and insulation layer accordingly.

There are several guided hikes and treks around El Chalten.  If you are interested in an organized experience, inquire about these specific treks and hikes.

• Glacier Viedma Trek
• Piedra del Fraile
• Hemeremul Circuit – known as the toughest hike in the region

What to Wear & Bring Hiking in El Chalten

Whenever you’re hiking, for a single day or multiple days, there are a few items you want to always have on you just in case the weather changes or you lose your way and get caught out after dark or have an accident.  Having these items on you, and in your day pack will keep you warm, dry, safe, and comfy

• Rain Jacket (waterproof, windproof)
• Hiking boots or athletic shoes suitable for walking 10+ miles
• Sweat-wicking base layer
• Trekking pants – breathable and quick drying
• Midweight fleece or insulation layer
• Wool hiking socks (medium weight)
• Smart phone with Maps.Me map app
• Small first aid kit (band-aids, sanitizer, blister strips)
• Portable Charger
• Headlamp with extra batteries

Other Essentials

• Down Jacket (“Puffy”) or other compressible, insulating jacket

Camping Equipment

If you plan to stay overnight in the park at one of the campsites, don’t forget these essentials which can be brought (if you have them), purchased in Chile or Argentina, or rented at one of the many outdoor stores.

• Tent (2 person, lightweight)
• Sleeping Bag (Synthetic Insulation)
• Camp Stove with sufficient Fuel
• **Optional** Sleeping bag for warmth and comfort

Renting Gear in El Chalten

As El Chalten is a mountain town built around trekking and tourism, finding gear for camping, trekking, and climbing is not much of an issue.  Your only issues may be finding quality gear (no holes, not overly used) during high season, or paying fairly high rental prices.

There are a handful of shops that both sell and rent out gear, so ask around for the best place to get the particular item you’re looking for.

If you are planning a fairly long and outdoorsy trip through Patagonia, to Bariloche, Torres del Paine, and other National Parks, I highly recommend buying or bringing camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, and stove) as rental fees can add up.  On the other hand, if El Chalten is your only stop, you’ll have little difficulty renting the gear you need on arrival

From El Calafate

Buses leave from El Calafate’s main bus terminal run by three separate bus companies for $20 USD one way or $30 USD round trip at ~7:30 AM.  The ride to El Chalten is about two hours long.

From San Carlos de Bariloche (the adventurous way)

Oooooh you’re in for a ride! If you have the time, the most adventurous way to travel is by bus.  The trip from Bariloche to El Chalten by bus via route 40 will be a minimum of a 24-hour ride, and overnight trip, if nothing goes wrong. 

My bus broke down and we were stuck in the middle of Patagonia on a dirt road for 18  hours, and other things such as flooding or rain can happen, so, make sure you have the time to flex for “adventure”.  This trip is run by the “Marga” bus company and runs ~$80 USD.  If you decide to go this route, book your tickets ASAP in Bariloche as seats sell out, bus departures aren’t often, and you’ll likely be taking a ~6:30 AM bus.

ATMs in El Chalten

El Chalten has a single ATM which, during high season, can run out of money or have issues suddenly.  Stay on the safe side by carrying plenty of cash on you

Water in El Chalten

Water in the park from wild sources (flowing streams) is potable and can be consumed without purifying – just ensure you’re collecting water from a place far (~100 meters or more) from where people bath, walk, or cross, and ensure you’re upstream.  Beware that there still may be animals upstream contaminating the water though. 

I prefer to err on the side of caution, bringing water purification tablets that are cheap and easy to use.

Food in El Chalten

When buying camp food, think simply to avoid overspending.  Don’t worry about getting the “specialty “dehydrated camp food”, just get meals that are simple, easy to prepare, and light, such as noodle cups, rice, canned fish, etc.

Plan on grocery store prices to be higher (up to double) what they’ll be in El Calafate and Bariloche, as El Chalten is a remote outpost.  Also, plan on the selection to be much thinner.  If you can buy your food for trekking/cooking closer to civilization, buy the special items (particular candies, chocolates) and the more expensive items then – they might either be more expensive or unavailable in El Chalten.

Gear for Camping & Trekking in Patagonia

If you have your own gear, such as sleeping bag, tent, and stove, bring it for a better experience in Patagonia.  If you will be traveling the area for some time and camping for more than a week, I recommend buying a tent and stove at least to save on costs. 

Argentine and Chilean branded gear can be purchased for a decent price (new or used) and is relatively good quality – I bought a tent in Bariloche in 2011 and still have/use it.

If buying gear doesn’t sound like your style, no problem.  El Chalten, Puerto Natales, and Bariloche all of have plenty of outdoor gear shops with ample gear and are easy to rent from.

Where to after El Chalten

If this taste of hiking and camping in Patagonia has you excited, I highly recommend proceeding to Puerto Natales in southern Chile and Torres del Paine National Park for the W trek and O Circuit trek, which rivals El Chalten and Parque Nacional Los Glaciares as the best park in Patagonia.

• Yes, there are plenty of shops to rent all of the camping you’ll need in El Chalten
• There is one ATM in El Chalten that breaks down from time to time, so come prepared with plenty of cash
• There are small grocery stores in El Chalten where you can buy food, but the prices will be higher than in El Calafate and Bariloche and the selection won’t be as good, so keep that in mind when prepping to come.
• Yes.  There are plenty of restaurants, nice, cheap, and convenient, and you’ll have no problem finding a good cappuccino in El Chalten either.

Like it? Share it!

Also, check out our other great content on Patagonia:       

• Camping El Chalten: An essential guide to the campsites, planning, and more
• Torres del Paine W Trek
• The Torres del Pain O Circuit Trek
• The Refugios and Campsites of Torres del Paine

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carlos is a nomad, slow traveler, and writer dedicated to helping others live abroad and travel better by using his 7+ years of experience living abroad and background as a management consultant and financial advisor to help other nomad and expats plot better paths for an international lifestyle. Click here to learn more about Carlos's story.

The Daily Packers

An authentic bariloche to el chalten 5h15 travel story.

• April 15, 2020
• Argentina , Bariloche , El Chalten , South America

Introduction: Bariloche to El Chalten

Bariloche to El Chalten is quite the long journey as the fastest road is about 1391km. There are through 3 ways of making it:

We opted for the plane in the end but will give you some insight of the 3 options as we spent time on them.

Table of Contents

Mapping the day from bariloche to el chalten.

The fastest way but not the cheapest. We checked on Skyscanner, google flight and ended up buying a ticket from Expedia. In order to get a better price, we also stayed longer in Bariloche.

Our plane was then from Bariloche (BRC) to El Calafate (FTE) at 12pm and latest for 1h45. It cost us 146 euro per person.

El Chalten doesn’t have an airport and therefor you must go through el Calafate first and then take a bus or van. But all together it stands faster. See the full article about the ride between El Calafate and El Chalten here.

We left Bariloche around 10:30am and arrive in El Chalten around 5:45pm. So, the total journey took us 5h15min.

Another options, is to take a bus directly from Bariloche bus terminal to El Chalten. There is a daily departure at 8am with MARGA TAQSA. The journey takes 23h10min and the arrival is planed for 7:10am the next day.

The cost for a ticket on Busbud is 119€, but this ticket can be bought for around 80 to 90€ in the terminal.

That’s the option, we would have loved to take if we had more time. We would have rent a car in Bariloche and give it back in El Calafate or take a bus to Puerto Mount (Chile) and give it back in Puerto Natales (Chile).

From Bariloche we would have driven to:

• El Bolson (only for a departure from Bariloche) and then cross the border to Chile
• Chaiten to visit Pumalin Park
• Puyuhuapi to visit Queulat National Park
• Coyhaique to visit Reserva Nacional Cerro Castillo
• Puerto Río Tranquilo to visit the Patagonia National Park
• El Chalten for Laguna de Los Tres
• El Calafate for Glacier Perito Morino

From Puerto Mount to:

• Puerto Natales to visit Torres del Paine

The cost and the duration of this, would have been greater but would have made an amazing road trip. We had planned for these 7 to 10 days.

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.” – Mark Twain (?)

Where to stay in El Chalten

• Budget: Lo de Guille
• Mid-Range: Complejo “Nahuel Pan “
• Luxurious: Destino Sur Hotel & Spa de Montaña

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A Backpacker’s Guide to El Chaltén, Argentina

• Last Updated March 17, 2024
• Argentina , South-America

Sitting within the borders of Los Glaciers National Park at the confluence of the pristine Rio Fitz Roy and Las Vueltas River, the tiny town of El Chalten is known as Argentina’s ‘national trekking capital’ and is a Mecca for hikers that come to wander the trails that wind around the granite spires of the mighty Mt. Fitz Roy that tower over the town.

It hasn’t always been this way: El Chalten has only existed since 1985, when it was established as an outpost to combat potential Chilean encroachment on Argentinian territory. Meaning ‘smoking mountain’, a name given to Fitz Roy by the native Tehuelche due to the wisps of cloud that constantly surround its summit, El Chalten has gone on to become one of the nation’s most popular outdoors destinations due to its role as the entrance to the national park’s northern reaches ( El Calafate  being the gateway to the south and the  Perito Moreno Glacier ).

Getting to El Chaltén

Although some people travel over to El Chalten by boat from Villa O’Higgins in Chile, the majority of travellers arrive from the Argentinian towns of El Calafate to the South, or Bariloche, way up north in the Patagonian Lake District.

During the high season, 6 daily buses make the 215km journey between El Chalten and El Calafate, taking around 3 hours. All leave from the main bus terminal in El Calafate, which is located on Julio Argentino Roca. The TAQSA buses (3 daily; 8am, 12.30pm and 4.30pm) go via El Calafate Airport. During the winter, the service reduces to just two buses per day so make sure to check the latest timetable. Tickets cost $800ARS.

Check bus prices and availability between El Chalten and El Calafate.

Be warned that if you are arriving from Bariloche , you have a long ride ahead of you. The 1400km journey takes almost 24 hours along Argentina’s world-famous Route 40 and can cost anywhere between £60 and £100 depending on whether you travel cama or semi-cama. Food and drink are provided every so often on the journey but ensure that you bring some snacks and money to purchase a more substantial meal at any service stations.

Check bus prices and availability between Bariloche and El Chalten.

Alternatively, if you would like to save time, you can fly from Bariloche to El Calafate International Airport and then take an onward bus to El Chalten. The flight time is 1 hour 45 and can cost anywhere between £120 and £200, depending on how far in advance you book.

Getting Around

El Chalten is a relatively small town, less than a kilometre north to south and just a few blocks wide. Everything in town is easily reached on foot in 20 minutes or less. As a tiny, sparsely populated town, it is very safe for tourists. You should have no issues wandering around, even at night, provided you take all of your usual precautions.

Where to Stay in El Chaltén

As the gateway to Los Glaciers National Park and Argentina’s premier hiking hub, El Chalten mostly exists to cater to the vast swathe of tourists that arrive to walk the area’s trails and as such, there are plenty of accommodation options in town. However, prices across the board are generally on the high side when compared to the rest of South America, and standards aren’t as high. Room rates reach their height during the peak months of January and February and during this time, booking in advance is essential.

A cosy, alpine style guesthouse on the western edge of town that is homey and welcoming with some nice communal spaces. They don’t offer dorm beds but have 9 clean and comfortable rooms that are perfect for couples or people travelling as a pair.

Albergue Patagonia

Although the rooms are a little basic, this welcoming HI hostel has clean 4 – 6 bed dorms and a basic on-site kitchen but the common spaces are fantastic and have a good vibe. Breakfast is included with all private room bookings.

Aguas Arriba Lodge

In the shadow of Mount Fitz Roy’s imposing peak, Aguas Arriba Lodge offers a guaranteed slice of peace and isolation.

This six-room luxury lodge, where the owners Pato and Ivor live on-site, is located 37 km from El Chaltén and is only accessible by 15-minute boat ride or three-hour hike, taking you past beautiful glaciers and waterfalls. The journey is worth it – you will be met with spectacular views of Mount Fitz Roy in one direction and the Lago del Desierto (Lake of the Desert) in the other.

Despite its remote location, Aguas Arriba Lodge has plenty of added luxuries, including a full-service restaurant, well-stocked bar and extremely comfortable rooms – you’ll certainly feel pampered and relaxed after a hard day of trekking here. There is also a boat on hand, allowing you to explore the surrounding lakes and rivers.

The Best Things to do in El Chaltén

This tiny town, set in the pretty valley of the Las Vueltas River doesn’t have much to attract visitors in and of itself: this small cluster of roads and painted wooden houses has a smattering of bars and restaurants but no museums, or even any real history, to explore. Instead, travellers are drawn here due to the town’s proximity to some of South America’s best hiking trails that wind their way around the stunning, snow-capped spires of the Fitz Roy mountain range. Although tackling Fitz Roy is a challenging technical climb reserved for only the more experienced outdoors enthusiast, there are plenty of trails that are suitable for beginners and those short on time, as myriad trailheads that lead into the national park begin in the town and can be hiked in less than a day.

Laguna Torre

The most popular hike from town is the 11km (3-hours each way) trail to Laguna Torre that follows the Rio Ritz Roy through along a relatively flat trail. The path is well-marked and it is difficult to get lost. You will pass through lenga forest to the impressive Torre lake that reflects the jagged towers of the mountains of the same name while blue glaciers bob and float on its silty surface. If you feel up to it, you can hike a further 2km around the lake to get a close-up view of the glacier from another look-out point.

Lagua de los Tres

The stunning hike to Laguna de los Tres underneath the iconic shape of Mount Fitz Roy is the reason why most hikers make their wait to El Chalten. It’s a little longer and more strenuous than the hike to Laguna Torres, stretching 12.5km and taking around 8 hours to complete, but it is worth it. The initially easy-going hike from town will take you passes by the Chorillo del Salto waterfall, the Capri lagoon, and several spots that offer incredible views of the Fitz Roy Massif before a sharp, steep ascent brings you face to face with the mountain itself, sitting beside a beautiful glacial lake.

Mount Fitz Roy/Cerro Torre Loop

It is possible to combine both the Laguna Torre and Laguna de los Tres Hikes into a much longer, 3 day, 2 night (34km) hike known as the Mount Fitz Roy/Cerro Torre Loop, utilising the free campsites that are found along the trails. To do this hike, you will complete the Laguna de los Tres walk on your first day, stopping overnight at nearby Camp Poincenot. On the second day, you begin to walk back towards El Chalten, before taking the turnoff that leads towards Laguna Torre (7km), hopefully arriving at the lake by lunchtime. It is easy enough to then leave for El Chalten, making it back in two days but many people extend the hike by staying overnight Camp De Agostini, 3 hours from town.

Weather in the park can be unpredictable, so ensure that you are well prepared with maps and equipment/food supplies. Check out my Patagonia packing list for more information on what you should take for multi-day hikes.

Take the Slow Boat to Chile

From El Chalten, it’s possible to reach Villa O’Higgins in Chile via a 1 or 2 day trip during the summer months. You will have to start by getting the morning shuttle from town to the southern shore of Lago del Desierto (1 hour/35km away) before hopping on the Patagonia Adventura boat to the northern side of the lake. Alternatively, you can hike along the eastern shore but it is a 15km trek that will take up to 5 hours.

After camping overnight (the campsite is free), you can grab an exit stamp from Argentinian immigration officials and begin your hike or bike ride over the pass into Chile. Be warned that it is a 22km walk to Candelario Mansilla where you will find Chilean immigration and accommodation for the night. Now that you have reached Lago O’Higgins, you can catch the Hielo Sur boat across the lake (5 hours/summer only) to Villa O’Higgins, the Chilean outpost at the end of the 1000km long Carretera Austral. All information about this trip, including the boat schedule, can be found at El Chalten’s tourism office.

HOW LONG SHOULD YOU STAY IN EL CHALTÉN?

How long you should stay in El Chalten completely depends on how much of Los Glaciers National Park you would like to see and how much hiking you plan on doing. There is nothing to see in the actual town, but I recommend staying for at least 2 full days and 3 nights in order to do the two main scenic hikes: to Laguna de los Tres and to Laguna Torre. As Fitz Roy can often be obscured by cloud, you may want to stay longer to guarantee at least one day with a clear view of the mountain.

Where to Eat & Drink in El Chaltén

Being a hub for hikers and rather tourist-heavy, prices in restaurants are a little elevated and on the high side, even compared to other Patagonian towns. Options are a little limited. To save a little money, you can try shopping at the town’s main supermarket, Supermercado Betoldi, and cook for yourself in your hostel’s kitchen. However, be warned that El Chalten’s remote location means that it isn’t particularly well stocked and both the fruit and veg can occasionally be on the rotten side.

Domo Blanco

This no-frills geleteria serves El Chalten’s best icecream, harvesting ingredients such as strawberries and raspberries from nearby Estancia San José, and caulks harvested in areas adjacent to the town. Make sure to try their signiture  White Dome  dulce de leche, which comes with pieces of white chocolate, nuts and rum or their chocolate  Super Dome  that has chocolate chips and a wild cherry.

Where : San Martín 164 When : Daily 1.30pm – 12am

La Zorra Taproom

The latest outpost of El Calafate’s Zorra (meaning fox) Brewery, this modernly adorned bar is probably the closest you will come to a hipster hangout in El  Chalten . The brews are good, particularly their honey beer, the food is cheap, and they have a happy hour each day. Not to mention that they probably have the best free  WiFi  in the area.  

Where : San Martín Opening Times : Times vary, but usually open midday until late.

El Cerveceria Chaltén

A cosy wooden cabin adorned with driftwood decore, Cerveceria Chaltén is the town’s most popular microbrewery-cum-drinking hole. It gets rather busy on an evening as wearing hikers stop off here after a day on the national park’s trails in order to sample the excellent unfiltered pilsner and a plate of locro,  the tradiitonal spict Patagonia strew.

Where : San Martín 320 When : Daily 12pm – 2am

B&B Burger Joint

After weeks of travelling around Patagonia and living off empanadas and cordero, sometimes you get the urge to eat a really great burger and B&B doesn’t disappoint . Like Cerveceria and La Zorra, they have an excellent menu of craft beers too, as the name suggests, with 12 micro brewed beers on tap.

Where : San Martín 721 Opening Times : Mon to Sat 12pm – 2am; Sun 9.30am – 5pm

Patagonicus

With a simple menu, this rustic eatery dishes out the best pizza – there are 20 different toppings – in El Chalten as well as thick chunks of steak, patagonian stews and salads as well as a good beer selection.

Where : Miguel Martín de Güemes 54 When : Daily 11am – 11pm

When to Visit El Chaltén

High season is between the summer months of December to March when temperatures are higher and you’re more likely to get clear views of Mt. Fitz Roy’s peak. During this time, ensure you book accommodation in advance as places fill up quickly.

November and April also have reasonably good hiking weather with the added bonus of the town being incredibly quiet – when I visited in April, we saw only a handful of other tourists in town – with much lower accommodation prices. Winter should generally be avoided as weather conditions close most of the hiking trails and trekking can be dangerous.

USEFUL INFORMATION

There is a Parque Nacional Los Glaciares office located at the entrance to town where you can pick up maps or get any information that you require. All buses into the town stop here for an introduction to the park’s rules and leave-no-trace commitments.

There is just one ATM in town, located beside the bus station but do not rely on it to have any cash. Ensure that you bring enough money to last for your entire visit to El Chalten.

Dave McClane

David McClane is a photographer and travel writer based in Leeds, UK. Since first picking up a camera on a yearlong journey through Central and South America in 2014/2015, He has carefully documented his travels through almost 50 countries.

A Backpacker’s Guide to Bariloche, Argentina

Patagonia Itinerary: 3 Weeks in Argentina and Chile

A Backpacker’s Guide to El Calafate, Argentina

Cold as Ice: Visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier

One response.

Hi! We’re Gianni & Tina from Italy. We’ll be in Argentina the next end January / beginning February 2024 and we’d like to have a trekking tour (the best one Fitzroy and cerro torre loop). Which are the costs for two people? Thanks and bye. Gianni

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Copyright © 2024 Man Vs Globe

Welcome to the Argentine mecca for climbers and trekkers. Learn about the attractions and things to do in El Chaltén, the best time to visit and our insider tips to prepare your next travel adventure.

El Chaltén is a little mountaineering village, founded 1985 and located inside the Glaciers National Park in Argentine Patagonia. For many years this secluded place remains as the unexplored spot for intrepid travelers whose main delight is to hike and explore nature. Today, though it manages to preserve its little-town ambiance, El Chaltén is visited for many people every year who enjoy hikes of different lengths and difficulty levels. Is in this isolated corner of Patagonia where the famous Mount Fitz Roy can be admired. Mount Chaltén is another highlight near the village which was named after this colossal and sacred mountain for the Tehuelches, the natives of the region. Its summit, frequently covered by clouds, was called by the Tehuelches “Chaltén” which means “smoking mountain” in the Tehuelches’ language. In 2015, Chaltén was declared “National Capital of Trekking”, but, apart from the descent of hiking trails and climbing routes, travelers can also enjoy other adventure activities like kayaking, horseback riding and sailing. We invite you to read our El Chaltén Travel Guide!

Attractions

This town nestled in Los Glaciares National Park, welcomes hikers every summer with its well-known trekkings surrounding the Mount Fitz Roy. Adventure yourself through any of El Chalten most known hikes: Laguna de los Tres, Capri Lagoon and Torre Lagoon .

Check out our most recommended attractions in El Chaltén!

Laguna de los Tres

The most sought-after hike with the most spectacular views of the Fitz Roy massif. This natural viewpoint is the closest site to the imposing walls of the Fitz Roy and its peripheral granite needles and without a doubt the most famous of all hikes. The head of the trail starts at the end of San Martin Avenue, where the urban area of El Chaltén ends and the parking area is located.

Difficulty: High

Duration: 8 to 9 hours (round trip) 

Distance: 25 km (round trip) 

Total height from El Chaltén: 770 m

Season: All year round

Capri Lagoon

This beautiful hike takes you to a lookout point over a blue water lagoon surrounded by native forest that can be reached in less than two hours. From here you can appreciate a fantastic view of the Fitz Roy massif. The trail starts at the end of San Martín Avenue, where the urban area of El Chaltén ends and the parking area and the National Parks dome are located. 

Difficulty: Medium

Duration: 4 to 5 hours (round trip) 

Distance: 8 km (round trip) 

Mirador del Torre

A short, low-difficulty hike along the Fitz Roy River valley to the famous panoramic viewpoint of Cerro Solo, Cordón Adela and the Cerro Torre massif.

Difficulty: Low

Duration: 3 to 4 hours (round trip) 

Distance: 7 km (round trip) 

Pliegue Tumbado

The only hike that is not in a valley, but rises above the valleys of El Chalten. 

It is one of the most impressive panoramic views of the whole area. The trail starts at the Visitor Center.   

Duration: 7 to 8 hours (round trip)

Distance: 21 km (round trip)

Total height of the path: 850 m

Season: October to May

Torre Lagoon

Next to Laguna De los Tres, the other great classic. A valley walk that will take you to an overwhelming site of mountains and glaciers. Cerro Torre is one of the most difficult and extraordinary climbs in the world.From El Chaltén there are two headwaters that lead to Laguna Torre; both trails merge 5 minutes from the start.

Difficulty: Low-medium

Duration: 7 to 8 hours (round trip) 

Distance: 19 km  (round trip)  

El Mirador de Los Cóndores/Las Águilas

This trekking starts at the back of the Ranger office. A viewpoint frequently flown by condors with a panoramic view over the town and the hills and another one that allows one to appreciate the Viedma Lake and the steppe. Starting from El Chaltén, we cross the access bridge over the Fitz Roy River and continue to the head of the trail that starts at the National Park Visitors’ Center. Passing a small gate a sign will indicate the way to the left, and a few steps away another information sign will show you a sketch of the trail. From here it will take another half hour to reach the Los Cóndores viewpoint.

Distance: 5 km (round trip) 

Duration: 2 hours (round trip) 

El Chorrillo del Salto

This is an easy, short hike into the low hillside forest to a beautiful waterfall over 20 meters high. The trail is mostly flat. You can’t see the mountains from here, a Nothofagus forest and there is also a nice picnic area. The trail starts in El Chaltén, at the end of San Martín Avenue, at the same head of the trail to Laguna De los Tres; you must take the trail that goes to the right.

Duration: 3 hours (round trip)

Distance: 7 km (round trip)

La Leona Petrified Forest

Explore a site of petrified logs and fossil bones in an impressive eroded landscape.

Season: October to April

Difficulty: moderate

Total time: 8 hours

Casa Madsen Museo

It is the house/museum of the first inhabitant of foreign origin in the region, Andreas Madsen. He and his wife, Stephanie Tomsen, originally from Denmark, made their home there and lived self-sufficiently throughout their lives. To visit the inside of the facilities you must go with a guide or tourist agency. If not, you can walk to the property and observe from outside.

Address: In front of the Río de las Vueltas viewpoint

Eating & Drinking

Check out our most recommended Restaurants & Bars in El Chalten!

San Martín 342, Tel: (02962) 493243.

Regional food

One of the most popular restaurants, the waiters here are a bit grumpy, but the food is delicious. Very original dishes and at a good price. Highly recommended: sweet potatoes with walnuts and roquefort and cheese salad!

San Martín 430, Tel: (02962) 493042.

Minutes / Homemade food

Although the owners have recently changed, this place continues to be the workers’ restaurant, also for the gauchos from the nearby estancias. That is why the food is also simple, cheaper dishes, made at home.

Ruca Mahuida

Lionel Terray 104, 9301. Tel: (02962) 493018.

One of the most intimate places, at the far end of the city, hidden at the bottom of a pretty garden. In this restaurant they always make a mess with the bill – check before paying – but the food is amazing and has a very romantic style.

Patagonicus

M. de Güemes 140, Tel: (02962) 493025.

Pizza, sandwiches and burgers. If you like palm hearts pizza, you have to know that Patagonicus makes pizza as good as in any pizzeria in Buenos Aires.

La Cervecería

San Martín 564, Tel: (02962) 193109.

It is the most popular restaurant in the city. It is always packed, not only because of its craft beer, but also because of its wonderful pizza and generous homemade casseroles, just perfect after a long day of walking!

La Wafleria

Av San Martín 640 Tel: (02962) 493093.

A very varied menu of waffles, both sweet and savory. Any option is delicious! Large portions at a reasonable price. Ideal as a snack after long walks. There are tables for groups like two people. You can also find a variety of juices and smoothies.

Antonio Rojo and Cabo García st. Tel: (02962) 493195

Carnes / Pasta

Very good dishes, generous portions and good quality. The service is excellent. The atmosphere of the place is very warm and makes you feel at home. The dishes are usually well presented and the desserts are delicious. Advance booking is recommended, if you don’t want to wait for a table the place fills up fast.

The Asadores

Ricardo Arbilla 101, Z9301

Traditional Argentinean Cusine

Enjoy an experience tasting different Argentine foods with the chef’s special touch, reversing traditional dishes without losing their essence.

El Calafate

Buenos Aires - El Calafate - Ushuaia - Salta - Iguazú Falls

El Calafate - Ushuaia - Buenos Aires - Iguazú Falls

Buenos Aires - Calafate - Chaltén - Ushuaia - Torres del Paine

Buenos Aires - Perito Moreno Glacier - Chaltén - Ushuaia

Buenos Aires - Puerto Madryn - Ushuaia - El Calafate - Iguazú

Bariloche, Villa Traful - San Martín de los Andes - Villa La Angostura

El Calafate - El Chaltén - Torres del Paine - Punta Arenas - Río Grande - Ushuaia

We recommend at least 3 nights in El Chalten to be able to do 2 full day trekking explorations.

The best time to visit El Chaltén of the year is during the summer. The season is from October to April, but the truth is that you can visit all year round. In winter there are fewer hotels and restaurants available and the climate is harder for outdoor activities, such as hiking, but it is still possible to visit in winter. 

The seasons are well defined throughout the year. Summer is mild with average temperatures of 12ºC, days with many hours of sunlight, normally windy and moderate rainfall.  Winter is cold, with an average temperature of 2ºC, short days, little wind and sporadic snowfalls.

Flight: You can take a flight to El Calafate International Airport and from there travel by land the last 200 km to El Chaltén.  

Self-drive: The access route to El Chaltén is in good condition, It is one of the newest routes in the country. The route was paved in 2003, it is double-handed, without potholes and perfectly signposted. Routes: Provincial Route 11, National Route 40 and Provincial Route 23.  All paved.

Bus: There are shared buses from El Calafate to El Chalten that operate everyday. There is also shuttle service from hotels in El Calafate to El Chalten. If you want to connect El Chaltén with Bariloche by bus there are 2 options. Take a 2 days and 1 night exploration from El Chaltén, or go by bus to El Calafate and from there take a bus to Bariloche (24 hours trip).

There is only one ATM and sometimes it runs out of cash, so we recommend having cash with you because otherwise you may run out of money. Also the phone and internet signal is sometimes not good and that makes it difficult to pay by card in some places. We recommend that you have cash with you.

Yes, but the signal is not very strong and is usually intermittent.

No. You do not need to have any experience in trekking, mountaineering, horseback riding, kayaking, rafting, etc.In fact, the majority of activities are concentrated on self-guided trails, which run along well-marked roads in good condition so that you feel safe at all times. For longer or more difficult hikes it is advisable to be in good physical condition. Only in the ascensions or expeditions it will be necessary to have some experience in climbing or trekking.

Yes. Depending on the age, you should consider certain cares:

Toddler: With a baby carrier you will be able to enjoy short or medium length walks of low difficulty.

Child : They can do the low-difficulty trails respecting their rest times. We recommend constant hydration and never leave them alone.  

Teenagers: They can do almost all the excursions if they are used to walking in the mountains.

Some excursions have age restrictions such as rafting, kayaking, etc.

We estimate around USD 50/100 per day, per person for daily expenses like eating, shopping and transportation, depending on how much money you want to spend on these.

Credit cards and US dollars are widely accepted, but it will be more convenient for you to exchange pesos rather than using US dollars because the rate that shops or restaurants use might not be the most convenient.

El Chaltén is a very young and developing town, so some facilities do not exist yet: Hospital (the nearest district hospital is in El Calafate), banks and exchange offices, cinemas, theaters, cultural centers, auditoriums or convention centers.

Patagonia is famous for its changeable climate and for the strong winds during the austral summer. Particularly in the El Chaltén area, cloudy or rainy days are frequent in the summer and the temperature contrasts between day and night are accentuated due to the proximity of the Southern Continental Ice. 

If you are going to spend the night in a base camp, you should bear in mind that it is not unusual for small snowfalls to occur, especially in the months of October, November, March and April. Good footwear (preferably trekking boots) and clothing using the layering method (first an undergarment that allows rapid evapotranspiration and drying, then another warm garment and finally a windbreaker) is the most recommended.

To enter Glaciers National Park we do not have to pay for the entrance. Unlike the South Zone (where the Perito Moreno Glacier is located) in the North Zone of Los Glaciares National Park there is no entrance fee. 

You can enter freely to all the trails that start from El Chaltén and run inside the National Park. There are trails located outside the National Park on private property where you will have to pay the entrance fee, as in the cases of the Laguna Azul and Laguna Diablo in the Estancia Los Huemules or the trail to the Huemul Glacier in Lago del Desierto.

Sustainability

Local businesses

• Sirio Artesanías

Tools and objects made of wood, metal and textiles. Mates, accessories, looms. In Sirio Artesanías you will be able to find souvenirs from this region.

Address: Lago del Desierto 330, Z9301 El Chaltén.

Days and hours: Monday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Price: Free entry.

• Chalteños: alfajores y dulces artesanales

It is a coffee with artisan elaboration of alfajores and sweets from the region. You can go to enjoy tea time and, if you like their products, buy to take away or give as gifts.

Address: Av. Del Libertador Gral. 249, El Chaltén.

Who to meet

• Guido Grando – Iron Artist

Guido Grando is a craftsman who, in addition to traditional blacksmithing, creates other objects, such as making cutlery. Although he is not a native of El Chaltén, he fell in love with the city when he met it and now lives there. He inaugurated the first art gallery in El Chaltén, “La  espatula rosada”, and he exhibited a sculpture of a large metal condor with outstretched wings.

Address: Antonio Rojo 236

Phone: +54 2962 493251

How to help

• Comedor Comunitario Municipal

It is a municipal soup kitchen created to give food to people affected by the pandemic. Although it was first a private action, the Municipality took over and now these activities are carried out at the Municipal Headquarters.

Address: Av. Martín M. de Güemes 21

Sustainability tips

• Take your reusable bag with you when you go shopping.
• Choose the consumption of local products from artisans and small producers.
• Travel the city by bike or on foot, it is healthy and does not leave a carbon footprint.
• When you go on an excursion, ask for food without plastic wrap.
• Don’t leave trash in nature.
• Take a reusable bottle with you to carry water in restaurants.
• Don’t feed native fauna.
• Use rechargeable batteries and batteries.

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Busses to and from El Chaltén

Passenger ground transportation service, connecting different destinations in Argentine and Chilean Patagonia.

El Chaltén town is located about 125 mi (200 km) from the El Calafate international airport and can only be accessed by land, traveling along the scenic National Route 40 and Provincial Route 41. All routes are paved and in very good condition, so the trip takes approximately 3 hours.

The daily bus service between El Calafate and El Chaltén operates all year round, with at least two daily frequencies (departure and return) in the morning and afternoon. During the tourist season (from October to April) several additional frequencies are added.

Some transportation companies offer connections to other destinations northward on Route 40 (such as Perito Moreno, Los Antiguos, Bariloche, etc.) or to Chile towards the South (Puerto Natales, Punta Arenas, etc.). Ask for further information to any of the bus companies listed below.

Daily departure schedule

Last update: March 12, 2024

From El Calafate to El Chaltén

08:00 Caltur Chaltén Travel 08:20

08:15 Taqsa 08:35

10:00 Taqsa 10:20

10:30 Chaltén Travel 10:50

11:00 Chaltén Travel Taqsa 11:20

12:30 Taqsa 12:50

13:30 Caltur 13:50

14:30 Chaltén Travel 14:50

18:00 Caltur Chaltén Travel Taqsa 18:20

From El Chaltén to El Calafate

08:00 Caltur Chaltén Travel Taqsa 10:40

11:30 Chaltén Travel 14:10

12:30 Taqsa 15:10

13:00 Caltur Chaltén Travel 15:40

14:30 Chaltén Travel 17:10

15:15 Taqsa 17:55

17:00 Taqsa 19:40

18:00 Caltur Chaltén Travel 20:40

19:00 Taqsa 21:40

One way ticket

Price per person.

Municipal tax

Price per person. Fee for the Right to use the El Chaltén Bus Terminal. Payment is made at Window 7 starting at 7:00 a.m.

Travel time

Estimated time for the 134 miles land route between the El Calafate Bus Terminal and the El Chaltén Bus Terminal.

The buses pick up passengers at the airport when they go from the city of El Calafate to El Chaltén, and drop off passengers when going from El Chaltén to El Calafate.

Bus companies

Chaltén travel.

Av. San Martín 724 +54 2902 491833

Chalten Travel is a Patagonian company with more than 20 years of life. We have daily departures from El Calafate to El Chaltén every day at 08hs, 13hs and 18hs, with returns at the same times from 15 November to 15 April. We go daily to Los Antiguos for the mythical Route 40 with connection to Bariloche and austral road (Chile). BUY YOUR TIQUET HERE

Bus Terminal, Stand 3 +54 2062 493150

CALTUR has more than 30 uninterrupted years of experience making known the wonders of Patagonia. Our regular line of special passenger and departure transport connects El Chaltén and El Calafate with buses at different times daily. We also offer regular departures to the Perito Moreno Glacier and tourist services. BUY YOUR TIQUET HERE

Bus Terminal, Stand 2 +54 2062 493130

Direct connection between El Calafate Airport and El Chaltén . Transfer of passengers and parcels. We have several alternatives to take you to all the destinations in Patagonia: El Bolsón, Esquel, Río Gallegos, Perito Moreno, Ushuaia, Los Antiguos, El Chaltén, El Calafate, Comodoro Rivadavia, Cmte. Luis Piedra Buena, Caleta Olivia y Bariloche. New destinations in Chile: Puerto Natales and Punta Arenas from Río Gallegos and Chile Chico - access door to Marble Chapels - from Los Antiguos. Book and pay your ticket online!

Armando Tola International Airport +54 9 2902 414310

Direct connection between El Calafate Airport and El Chaltén. Door to Door Service . We wait for you in the arrivals hall of the Armando Tola Airport, and we take you directly to the front door of your hotel in El Chaltén. We serve all flights. Shared services (intercity transfers) and private cars. Return from El Chaltén to the airport and to the city of El Calafate. Local transfer services in El Chaltén and El Calafate. We offer professional, reliable and very comfortable transportation. Operating since 2004. BUY YOUR TIQUET HERE

More ground transportation options

Vehicle rental without driver in El Chaltén, El Calafate city and airport.

Private transfers

Minivans, all terrain vehicles and cars to and from the Airport and other points of interest in Southern Patagonia.

Find cheap bus tickets from El Chaltén to Bariloche

Easily compare and book your next trip with Busbud

Bus El Chaltén to San Carlos de Bariloche: Trip Overview

Compare bus companies.

Based on 24 reviews, Marga was rated 2.3 stars for this trip. Marga ticket prices on this trip start at $178.00, with the trip lasting on average 24h40.

Marga Taqsa El Chaltén San Carlos de Bariloche recent customer reviews

I tried to cancel my trip since they told me my bus was not leaving anymore and that i had to cancel it myself but apparently it was never cancelled.

Seats are comfortable, bus is not very new but it does the trick. Food consists of some cookies and lemonade so make sure to bring enough food and drink!!!

There were several stops, unnecessarily long, there were no lights at the seats to use when it was dark, there were no USB plugs

El Chaltén to Bariloche Buses

With Busbud, comparing and booking tickets for a bus from El Chaltén to Bariloche is a breeze. Browse through an extensive selection of bus fares and bus schedules to find the best deals.

We make it our job to connect you with the most dependable bus companies that cover bus service from El Chaltén to Bariloche.

From cheap bus tickets to more luxurious buses traveling from El Chaltén to Bariloche, we offer a wide range of bus services to best suit your needs depending on how much your budget is.

Information on this bus route

Where are the popular bus stations and stops in el chaltén and bariloche.

Perito Moreno Nº28, El Chalten, Santa Cruz, Argentina

12 de Octubre 2400, San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro, Argentina

Ingeniero Jacobacci, Río Negro, Argentina

Anasagasti 801-899, San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro, Argentina

Bariloche airport, Acceso A Aeropuerto Internacional Tte. L., Candelar S/N, San Carlos de Bariloche, Río Negro, Argentina

Frequently asked questions for your trip El Chaltén - San Carlos de Bariloche

How do i get from el chaltén to san carlos de bariloche without flying.

Taking the bus is the best way to travel to San Carlos de Bariloche without flying. The bus provides a cost-effective, safe, and easy way to travel between the two cities. Taking a ride with other travelers through carpool services is an additional option to consider.

How long is the bus ride from El Chaltén to San Carlos de Bariloche?

On average, the trip from El Chaltén to San Carlos de Bariloche takes around 1d, although the minimum time it takes to get there is 1d with the fastest bus. This is the time it takes to travel the 571 miles (920 km) that separate the two cities.

How far is El Chaltén from San Carlos de Bariloche?

El Chaltén and San Carlos de Bariloche are 571 miles (920 km) apart.

How many buses travel between El Chaltén and San Carlos de Bariloche daily?

About 1 bus travels this route daily, provided by Marga. Depending on the day of the week, the number of buses available from El Chaltén to San Carlos de Bariloche may vary. Want to make your bus journey from El Chaltén to San Carlos de Bariloche as smooth as possible? Busbud has got you covered! Browse schedules, pick the perfect bus for your travel style and budget - all in one place.

What time are the first and last bus from El Chaltén to San Carlos de Bariloche?

The only daily bus traveling from El Chaltén to San Carlos de Bariloche usually leaves at 2:10 PM and is provided by Marga.

What are the departure and arrival stations when taking the bus from El Chaltén to San Carlos de Bariloche?

Most of the buses traveling from El Chaltén to San Carlos de Bariloche leave from Terminal de Omnibus El Chalten and arrive at Terminal de ómnibus de Bariloche. These are the most popular pick-up and drop-off locations on this route, there are other pick-up and drop-off locations that could make it easier for you to reach your destination.

What is the cheapest way to travel from El Chaltén to San Carlos de Bariloche?

Go for the bus if you want the most cost-effective way to travel this route. $178 is the starting point for the cost-effective bus ride to San Carlos de Bariloche from El Chaltén.

How much does a bus ticket from El Chaltén to San Carlos de Bariloche cost?

The bus ticket costs $178 on average. In the past 30 days, prices have fluctuated between $178 and $178, so it's best to compare them to make sure you get the best deal.

Can I take an overnight bus from El Chaltén to San Carlos de Bariloche?

Certainly! You can indeed opt for an overnight bus from El Chaltén to San Carlos de Bariloche. Remember to bring along essentials like a blanket and some snacks to ensure a cozy and convenient journey.

About Bus Travel

Bus travel tips.

Meet and talk to locals at the bus stations while traveling from El Chaltén to San Carlos de Bariloche.There is no better way to get inside travel information while exploring a new city than to go straight to its people.

From miles long of beauteous natural landscapes to impressive man-crafted sights, you're bound to be in for a visual treat on your bus trip from El Chaltén to San Carlos de Bariloche.

Taking the bus creates the smallest carbon footprint compared to other modes of transport. Not to mention that buses will allow you to discover scenic gems from El Chaltén to San Carlos de Bariloche that are otherwise impossible to come by with a plane.

Create your own real life musical score by curating a personalized bus travel playlist - the perfect accompaniment to your bus ride from El Chaltén to San Carlos de Bariloche.

Did you know?

One of the longest bus route in the world goes all the way from Ontario to Alberta in Canada (with the same bus). This trip is 3,435 km or 2,135 miles long and the price is a bit under $100.

Did you know some bus companies in Germany offer to their passenger low-costs snacks and regional beer based on their destination? Prosit!

It takes 27 hours to go by bus from Lima to Cusco, one of the craziest bus trips on the world. This route is used daily by locals and backpackers.

Will you be returning to El Chaltén by bus?

Top traveled bus routes.

Why choose Busbud?

The best way to book bus and train tickets.

Busbud makes bus travel easy. We help travelers find a bus, plot routes, and book intercity bus tickets all over the world. With Busbud, wherever you go, you have a worldwide bus station within reach and available in your own language and currency. With Busbud, you can buy tickets with confidence. We ensure that you make the most out of your bus trip by partnering up with reliable bus companies from all around the world such as Greyhound, Eurolines, ALSA, OUIBUS (BlaBlaBus), National Express and many others.

Popular Buses Connecting El Chaltén

Buses leaving from el chaltén.

• Bus from El Chaltén to Los Antiguos
• Bus El Chaltén - El Bolsón
• El Chaltén - Esquel
• Bus from El Chaltén to Puerto Natales
• Bus El Chaltén - Perito Moreno
• El Chaltén - Punta Arenas
• Bus from El Chaltén to Ushuaia
• Bus El Chaltén - Río Gallegos
• El Chaltén - La Leóna
• Bus from El Chaltén to Fitz Roy
• Bus El Chaltén - Puerto San Julián
• El Chaltén - Bajo Caracoles
• Bus from El Chaltén to Caleta Olivia
• Bus El Chaltén - El Hoyo
• El Chaltén - Rio Grande

Buses Going to El Chaltén

• Bus from Perito Moreno to El Chaltén
• Bus Los Antiguos - El Chaltén
• El Bolsón - El Chaltén
• Bus from Esquel to El Chaltén
• Bus Puerto Natales - El Chaltén
• Ushuaia - El Chaltén
• Bus from Río Gallegos to El Chaltén
• Bus Rio Grande - El Chaltén
• Fitz Roy - El Chaltén
• Bus from El Hoyo to El Chaltén
• Bus Tecka - El Chaltén
• Río Turbio - El Chaltén
• Bus from Puerto San Julián to El Chaltén
• Bus La Leóna - El Chaltén
• Caleta Olivia - El Chaltén

Popular Buses Connecting San Carlos de Bariloche

Buses leaving from san carlos de bariloche.

• Bus from Bariloche to Neuquén
• Bus Bariloche - Puerto Montt
• Bariloche - Perito Moreno
• Bus from Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes
• Bus Bariloche - Buenos Aires
• Bariloche - El Bolsón
• Bus from Bariloche to Esquel
• Bus Bariloche - Villa La Angostura
• Bariloche - Puerto Madryn
• Bus from Bariloche to Córdoba
• Bus Bariloche - Ushuaia
• Bariloche - Rosario
• Bus from Bariloche to Comodoro Rivadavia
• Bus Bariloche - Villa Traful

Buses Going to San Carlos de Bariloche

• Bus from El Bolsón to Bariloche
• Bus Córdoba - Bariloche
• Puerto Montt - Bariloche
• Bus from Puerto Varas to Bariloche
• Bus Neuquén - Bariloche
• Dina Huapi - Bariloche
• Bus from San Martín de los Andes to Bariloche
• Bus Villa La Angostura - Bariloche
• Puerto Madryn - Bariloche
• Bus from Esquel to Bariloche
• Bus Salta - Bariloche
• Comodoro Rivadavia - Bariloche
• Bus from Los Antiguos to Bariloche
• Bus Perito Moreno - Bariloche
• Ushuaia - Bariloche

Popular routes in this country

• Bus from Buenos Aires to Puerto Iguazú
• Bus El Calafate - Perito Moreno
• Bariloche - Mendoza
• Bus from El Calafate to Bariloche
• Bus Puerto Iguazú - Buenos Aires
• Mendoza - Buenos Aires
• Bus from Buenos Aires to Rosario
• Bus Bariloche - El Calafate
• El Calafate - Ushuaia
• Bus from Córdoba to Mendoza
• Bus Buenos Aires - Bariloche
• Bariloche - El Chaltén
• Bus from Mendoza to Córdoba
• Bus Mendoza - Salta
• Mendoza - Bariloche

Popular international trips

• Bus from Mexico to Veracruz
• Bus Veracruz - Mexico
• Xalapa - Mexico
• Bus from Mexico to Xalapa
• Bus Madrid - Segovia

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• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for Argentina San Carlos de Bariloche vs. El Chalten for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

• Which is Cheaper, San Carlos de Bariloche or El Chalten? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Should you visit San Carlos de Bariloche or El Chalten?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for San Carlos de Bariloche and El Chalten. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Where Should I go: San Carlos de Bariloche or El Chalten?

San carlos de bariloche.

Set in the foothills of the Andes Mountains in Argentina, San Carlos de Bariloche is the biggest city in the Lake District. Bariloche is popular for skiing and snowboarding in the winter and trekking, swimming, fishing and horseback riding in the summertime. No matter the time of year, there is something for everyone in Bariloche. Skiing season begins from June to October while fishing season is from November to April. Summer is from December to March, but visiting during low seasons (Spring in October to December and Autumn in late-April to mid-June) also has its benefits when it comes to saving cash and avoiding crowds. Check out our ultimate guide to Hiking in Patagonia .

El Chalten is probably one of the most beautiful areas of Patagonia, especially at the slightest ray of sunshine and one of your cheapest destination while you are travelling in Patagonia. Indeed, you will spend your days hiking and there are no park fees. There are restaurants, souvenir shops, and outdoor stores but most of them will not accept credit cards so before heading out, get cash in El Calafate or your previous stop. For the beginners, it will be long hikes in a magical setting and for the experts perhaps a week long expedition to the greatest glaciers of the world. To discover the way people live in the pampa, you may also decide to stay at an Estancia. In the stunning Estancia Santa Thelma, about 300km away from El Chalten, you will be able to explore the surroundings by horse, live a unique experience in the middle of the nature and its vast plains occupied by thousands of merino sheep and horses and of course eat a typical meal of the region.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Eco Tours in Argentina , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Argentina , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Argentina , and The Best Photography Tours in Argentina .

Which place is cheaper, El Chalten or San Carlos de Bariloche?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• San Carlos de Bariloche Prices Argentina Prices El Chalten Prices Argentina Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day San Carlos de Bariloche $ 7.19 El Chalten $ 9.65

The average daily cost (per person) in San Carlos de Bariloche is $7.19, while the average daily cost in El Chalten is $9.65. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for San Carlos de Bariloche and El Chalten in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person San Carlos de Bariloche $ 2.60 El Chalten $ 4.30
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room San Carlos de Bariloche $ 5.20 El Chalten $ 8.60

Compare Hotels in San Carlos de Bariloche and El Chalten

Looking for a hotel in San Carlos de Bariloche or El Chalten? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in San Carlos de Bariloche

Hotels in El Chalten

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. San Carlos de Bariloche $ 2.22 El Chalten $ 2.30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Carlos de Bariloche

Some specific examples of transportation prices in San Carlos de Bariloche:

• Bariloche: 1-Way or Round-Trip BRC Airport Transfer: $9.00
• Private transfer Bariloche Airpot- Hotels: $13
• Shared Transfer One Way - Bariloche Airport to Hotel or v.v.: $22
• Shared Departure Transfer: Hotel to Bariloche Airport: $22
• Transfers in Bariloche: $22
• Transfer from the Airport to Bariloche: $26
• Cerro Catedral to Bariloche Airport (BRC) - Departure Transfer: $28
• Bariloche: One-Way Private Transfer from Airport: $35
• Private Transfer from Bariloche (BRC) Airport to Tambo Viejo: $37
• Private Transfer from Bariloche (BRC) Airport to Playa Bonita: $46
• Private Transfer from Bariloche (BRC) Airport to Hotel Catedral: $46
• Private Transfer from Hotel Catedral to Bariloche (BRC) Airport: $46

Is it cheaper to fly into San Carlos de Bariloche or El Chalten?

Prices for flights to both El Chalten and San Carlos de Bariloche change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day San Carlos de Bariloche $ 2.70 El Chalten $ 3.56

Typical Food Prices in San Carlos de Bariloche

Some typical examples of dining costs in San Carlos de Bariloche are as follows:

• Pastries $ 0.01
• Empanadas $ 0.03

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. San Carlos de Bariloche $ 2.96 El Chalten $ 2.59

Tours and Activities in San Carlos de Bariloche

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for San Carlos de Bariloche are as follows:

• Bariloche: 4-Hour Cerro Catedral Base Tour: $15
• Bariloche: Half Day Small Circuit Tour - Mt Campanario and Llao Llao Peninsula: $23
• German Footprint Tour: $29
• Indigenous People of Patagonia History Tour: $29
• German Footprint & Nazi presence - Walking Tour in Bariloche: $29
• Small Circuit Tour: Mt Campanario and Llao Llao Peninsula: $33
• Classic Bariloche: Half-Day Sightseeing Excursion: $38
• Bariloche: Full-Day El Bolsón and Puelo Lake Tour: $42
• Pablo Bernasconi's Art Gallery Guided Tour: $60
• President Peron in Bariloche - Historic Tour: $60
• Discovering Cerro Catedral: A Sightseeing Tour: $63
• From Bariloche: Half-Day Circuito Chico Sightseeing Tour: $67

Tours and Activities in El Chalten

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for El Chalten are as follows:

• 3 Hours Grilled Lamb Experience in Estancia Bonanza: $55
• Rafting experience on the Rio de las Vueltas in Patagonia: $120
• Rio de las Vueltas Rafting Experience - El Chalten: $120
• Alcohol Drinks for one day San Carlos de Bariloche $ 1.78 El Chalten $ 1.18

Typical Alcohol Prices in San Carlos de Bariloche

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in San Carlos de Bariloche from other travelers:

• Beer $ 0.01

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between San Carlos de Bariloche and El Chalten, we can see that El Chalten is more expensive. And not only is San Carlos de Bariloche much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to San Carlos de Bariloche would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Carlos de Bariloche and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in El Chalten would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in El Chalten than you might in San Carlos de Bariloche.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is San Carlos de Bariloche Expensive? and Is El Chalten Expensive? .

Related Articles for San Carlos de Bariloche

Related articles for el chalten.

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