Day hiking from El Chaltén
El Chaltén is the gateway to the Fitz Roy Massif in Los Glaciares – and some world class day hikes leading straight from your hotel to the mountains and glaciers.
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3 Reasons to Visit Los Huemules Reserve
- Off-the-beaten-track: Hike pristine trails from lush forests to glacial valleys with views of imposing mountains including Fitz Roy. The routes are super quiet offering a contrast to busier routes in the region.
- Rare wildlife: Try to spot the reserve's namesake, the elusive huemul deer, alongside condors, and rare species of bird—who you'll likely hear before you see.
- Conservation pioneers: The owners are dedicated to testing the latest sustainability practices and your visit directly supports the reserve's efforts to protect one of Patagonia's incredible ecosystems.
Los Huemules Reserve day hike to the hut at Puesto Cagliero
Some of the sweeping vistas may leave you speechless
Swooper, Ceci, enjoying the rope bridge river crossings
Passing a waterfall flowing from the Blue Lagoon on the way to the viewpoint
Take on one of the adventurous hikes from Puesto Cagliero
As the clouds part catch a glimpse of Mt 30th Anniversary
Join a group for the Cagliero Ice Hike
Autumn is a fantastic time to visit the Los Huemules Reserve
Keep your ears and eyes peeled for the native huemul deer
What to see & do in Los Huemules Reserve
Hiking
The Los Huemules Reserve offers a variety of well-marked hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate in difficulty. These trails cater to hikers of all experience levels, making it a great option for families or those seeking a more relaxed Patagonian experience compared to some of the more strenuous hikes in Los Glaciares National Park.
Here are some of the most popular hikes:
Laguna del Diablo: This moderate, 5-6 hour round trip hike takes you through beech and evergreen forests, views of the Cagliero Glacier and aerial views of the entire valley.
Laguna Azul & Laguna Verde Loop: This short and easy two-hour loop circles two stunning lakes with a backdrop of the Fitz Roy Massif.
Puesto Cagliero Hike: An 11km roundtrip through the reserve where you'll see the hut at Puesto Cagliero.
The reserve offers several additional trails ranging from shorter walks to full-day adventures.
Sydney says
If you're seeking maximum solitude with minimum distance, I loved the 11km roundtrip walk through the Huemules Reserve to the hut at Puesto Cagliero. It sits at the back of the valley on a tiny lagoon, overlooked by a hanging glacier. In cool weather (aka all the time in Patagonia!), the staff keep a wood fire burning while they cook you a crepe slathered with dulce de leche. It’s a pocket-sized slice of beauty and I saw just half a dozen people the entire time I was there.
Sydney Miller Patagonia Specialist
Via Ferrata and Ice Hiking
Pick between two Via Ferrata experiences climbing up above Neumeyer Glacier or Cagliero Glacier (both located within the reserve). The activity is increasing in popularity in Patagonia and other mountain locations across the world.
The protected areas feature a series of iron steps and safety cables fixed to rock faces, allowing climbers of various skill levels to traverse challenging routes safely.
You can combine this with an Ice Hike on top of the glaciers where you'll use crampons to travel across the snow enjoying views of the rugged granite and Mount Fitz Roy - depending on the weather of course.
Although not for the faint-hearted there may also be the opportunity to abseil back down with the help of a guide.
Please note - For these activities, you must be a strong hiker and okay with heights. There are big drops and the climb may involve some scrambling and boulder hopping.
What our customers think of Los Huemules Reserve
Review:
About Los Huemules Reserve
This private reserve, sprawling over 14,500 acres, boasts an interesting past. For over a century and a half, the land served as a summer grazing ground for cattle, initially for Tehuelche herders and later for Welsh settlers with mining sites. But, two decades ago, the purpose of the land changed dramatically. The current owners envisioned a new future for this landscape.
Today, with sustainability at its core, Los Huemules Reserve prioritises protecting the ecosystem. Pristine trails meander through lush forests, valleys, and rivers, offering visitors awe-inspiring views. The reserve's name pays homage to the elusive huemul deer, and with a little luck, you might spot one alongside other native wildlife. By visiting, you contribute to these ongoing conservation efforts, ensuring this natural paradise thrives for generations to come.
Cecilia says
I loved my time exploring Los Huemules. It's like a hidden jewel - I get the classic Patagonian scenery with crystal-clear lakes and majestic mountains, all without the crowds. It's peaceful, serene, and the perfect place to unplug from normal life. The hikes were magical!
Cecilia Paz Mesa Furniss Patagonia Customer Experience Co-ordinator
How to get to Los Huemules Reserve
Los Huemules Reserve is roughly 11 miles from El Chaltén, bordering Los Glaciares National Park on the north side. There are no public buses that service the reserve, but many nearby hotels or local transport companies can arrange transfers for you subject to availability.
Swoop says
Please note Los Huemules Reserve is closed to visitors from May to mid-October.
Where to stay in Los Huemules Reserve
El Chaltén
El Chaltén is a great base if you want to visit the Los Huemules Reserve. The town has plenty of accommodation options to choose from. According to your taste and budget options include basic guesthouses (hosterías) charming B&Bs, alpine-style lodges and upmarket hotels. There are no refugios but there are camping (or glamping) options nearby.
Within Los Huemules Reserve
Puesto Cagliero is a rustic yet cosy bunkhouse nestled within the Los Huemules. It provides a comfortable base with basic amenities, including shared sleeping areas, a communal kitchen, and shared bathrooms.
Its strategic location makes it an ideal starting point for activities such as hiking, Via Ferrata climbing, and glacier trekking, allowing you to fully experience the natural beauty and rugged terrain of the reserve. The atmosphere at Cagliero is generally one of camaraderie and adventure, with a sense of community among fellow hikers.
Something Special
Located right inside the Los Huemules Reserve experience true seclusion and a slice of luxury at Explora El Chaltén. Enjoy views of the Electric Valley and the Marconi Glacier in contemporary yet rustic interiors with traditional estancia design influences. The lodge boasts delectable cuisine, a spa and an array of guided excursions.
Explora's team act as custodians of the land they have been entrusted with and have developed their own strict environmental policy.
Trips that visit Los Huemules Reserve
4.4 out of 5
Los Glaciares Multisport Adventure
Take the classic hikes to Laguna de Los Tres and Laguna Torre and then get a different perspective of the awe-inspiring peaks of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre peaks as you learn to climb the outcrops behind El Chaltén, bike…
- 7 Days
- $2,830
4.2 out of 5
Explore Fitz Roy from a Luxury Lodge
This luxury lodge-based trip in and around the Mount Fitz Roy area features an immense choice of excursions, whatever your ability. Trek famous routes like Laguna Torre and Laguna de Los Tres, or try something different such as rock climbing…
- 5 Days
- $5,480
4.7 out of 5
The Best of Los Glaciares
Experience the very best scenery of the Los Glaciares National Park on a series of day hikes. You'll visit Laguna de Los Tres and Laguna Torre, plus spend time kayaking on Lago del Desierto. There's also a day trip to…
- 7 Days
- $3,520
Begin at the majestic Perito Moreno Glacier, then base yourself in the cosy town of El Chaltén. Trek to the top sights of Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre and try ice-hiking on Glacier Cagliero with a night in a…
- 8 Days
- -
Explore more of Los Glaciares
Multi-Day Trekking in Fitz Roy
Los Glaciares offers extraordinary multi-trekking adventures, sleeping under the stars to explore Mount Fitz Roy, hanging glaciers and hidden valleys.
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Multi-Sport Activities in Los Glaciares
Los Glaciares has a host of multisports adventure activities on offer, from exploring on horseback or mountain bike to kayaking, rock climbing and more.
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Perito Moreno Glacier Tours
Perito Moreno glacier is one of Argentina’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, to be experienced by boat, kayak or even by hiking with crampons across its frozen surface.
Discover MoreWhy Swoop
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