Fitz Roy day hike: an essential guide

Fitz Roy day hike: an essential guide

A question and answer guide to the Fitz Roy day hike that tells you exactly what you need to know to reach this iconic peak

We still had unfinished business with Fitz Roy. We first visited Chile in 2015 after a disappointing trip to Torres del Paine. It was winter in Patagonia and thanks to the terrible weather we didn't see anything.

A local guide told us to try El Chaltén in Argentina, where one of the most beautiful mountains in the world looms over the village itself. To redeem the journey south, we followed his advice and headed to El Chaltén.

Unfortunately, it wasn't to be. After hiking 18 km (11 miles) to Laguna Torre, we suffered the same fate: a complete whiteout. Peter was particularly dejected. As a mountain junkie, he couldn't believe he missed seeing these iconic peaks.

Atlas & BootsPeter saw Fitz Roy for the second time

What he didn't know at the time was that we would return seven years later on our trip to Antarctica. This time we made another faux pas. Lulled into a false sense of security by our travel experience, we neglected to book a room in advance. We assumed we could sort it out when we got there. To our surprise, El Chaltén was completely full. There was no single room available.

Dsaprin/ShutterstockEl Chalten was completely full when we visited

Determined not to miss this, we decided to stay in El Calafate, a three-hour drive away, and used the public bus to do the Fitz Roy day hike (also known as the Laguna de Los Tres Trail). As a result, we had to do the hike in a hurry to catch the bus returning. We did it, but by God it was tiring. To make your time easier, we have put together this important guide.

What is Fitzy Roy?

Fitz Roy is a picturesque mountain in Patagonia, on the border between Argentina and Chile. At 3,375 m, it is the highest peak in Los Glaciares National Park and one of the region's most popular attractions. Access is via the village of El Chaltén, named after Fitzy Roy's Tehuelche name, meaning "smoking mountain", probably due to the fact that it is often shrouded in clouds.

Atlas & Boots

This time we were lucky with the weather

Explorers Francisco Pascasio Moreno (aka Perito Moreno) and Carlos Moyano later named it Fitz Roy after the captain of the Beagle, the ship that took Darwin on his famous expedition.

What distance does the Fitz Roy day hike cover?

The Fitz Roy day hike is 24 km (15 miles) from the trailhead at Sendero al Fitz Roy to the glacial lake Laguna de Los Tres.

If you walk from the bus station (Terminal de Ómnibus El Chaltén) ​​to the trailhead, add 2 km each way for a total of 28 km (17 miles).

The height difference is 1,067 m, much of which is at the end. So save your energy with snacks, breaks and lots of water.

How long is the Fitz Roy day hike?

Allow 8-10 hours to complete the Fitz Roy day hike. We covered 28km (including walking to and from the bus stop) in 7.5 hours, but that was a pretty quick pace. Give yourself plenty of time for photos and breaks, and start early to beat the heat.

Atlas & BootsAllow at least 8 hours for the Fitz Roy day hike

It's also worth noting that what we consider normal hiking etiquette apparently wasn't present there (i.e. moving to the side to let faster hikers pass). Therefore, you may find yourself behind slower hikers. In this case, try to find a suitable place to pass or ask politely: “Disculpe, podemos pasar?” (or “Disculpe, puedo pasar?” if there is only one of you).

How difficult is the Fitz Roy day hike?

Fitz Roy should be approached as a challenging hike. While much of the route winds along well-trodden paths on flat terrain, the last hour is a strain, especially in the heat. Most of the 1,067m elevation gain is in this final section and the terrain varies from large boulders to loose gravel. Take your time and go slowly.

Where does the Fitz Roy day hike start and end?

The Fitz Roy day hike begins at Sendero al Fitz Roy and ends at the glacial lake Laguna de Los Tres.

What should I pack?

As with any hike, pack plenty of water, food, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, layers of clothing, and some type of navigation device (paper/digital map and compass). For the final section of the hike, wear comfortable hiking shoes, ideally with some ankle support. Given the exceptional views, it's also worth packing a good camera.

When is the best time to do the Fitz Roy day hike?

The best time to hike to Fitz Roy is from December to February. We were there in January and had wonderful weather. However, this is peak season, so expect price hikes and busy trails.

Atlas & BootsWe had wonderful weather at Fitz Roy

The shoulder months Sep-Nov and Mar-Apr are also good travel times. Be warned, however, that the weather in Patagonia is very changeable, so pack for all eventualities. Whatever month you choose, start the hike early to beat the heat and crowds.

Can I do the Fitzy Roy day hike alone?

Yes, you can do the Fitz Roy day hike alone. Make sure you read this guide from start to finish so you are well prepared.

Can I do the Fitz Roy day hike from El Calafate?

Yes, but we would advise against using public transport as we did. Instead, rent a car or book a private tour. Some well-reviewed options are listed below.

If you really want to take public transport, you can book public bus tickets online. We took the following buses but times vary outside of peak season. Also note that our bus arrived in El Chaltén late (at 11am), which shortened our hiking time. Plan accordingly.

8:00 a.m. - 10:40 a.m. Bus from El Calafate bus station to El Chaltén (2 hours 40 minutes) 7:30 p.m. - 10:20 p.m. Bus from El Chaltén to El Calafate bus station (2 hours 50 minutes)

Where should I stay in El Chalten?

We didn't stay at El Chaltón this time as there was absolutely no availability. Pro tip: book in advance! The following hotels are well rated on Booking.com.

High-EndChalten Suites HotelLos Cerros del Chaltén Boutique HotelChalten Camp – Glamping with a view (outside the city)

Middle classKau Si AikeApart Guillaumet

BudgetRancho GrandeNewen Bed & Breakfast

How do I get to El Chaltén?

Most travelers to El Chaltén come from El Calafate. You can book the public bus or a private transfer. You can fly to El Calafate from Buenos Aires or Ushaia. Book via skyscanner.net for the best prices.

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