Mt. Fitz Roy

The Basics

The resort village of El Chaltén serves as the starting point for hikes around Mt. Fitz Roy. The hike to the top is challenging, even for experienced hikers, but visitors will find plenty of trails affording stellar views of the granite peaks.

Spend a full day hiking on a day trip from El Calafate, or opt for a multi-day trekking tour through Los Glaciares National Park to soak up the landscapes of Laguna de los Tres, Laguna Torre, Piedras Blancas Glacier, and Laguna Madre e Hija as well.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Mt. Fitz Roy is a must-see for adventure travelers and first-time visitors to Patagonia.

• Guided hiking tours to the Mt. Fitz Roy area can last anywhere from a full day to five days, depending on the option chosen.

• Don’t forget to wear sturdy hiking shoes suitable for traversing uneven surfaces.

• Dress in layers, as temperatures can be chilly even during summer in the Southern Hemisphere.

How to Get There

The easiest way to access the national park is by car or guided tour. It’s also possible to take Bus 40 from El Calafate. Once inside the park, several trails offer views of the peak, depending on your time constraints and fitness level.

When to Get There

The best season for hiking this region of Argentina is from November to April—summer in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s best to visit on a clear day when the peak will be visible, but weather conditions can always change quickly.

Other Attractions in Los Glaciares National Park

Mt. Fitz Roy may be the star attraction for trekkers within Los Glaciares National Park, but it’s not the only highlight of a visit. The park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also home of the Perito Moreno Glacier, Southern Patagonian Ice Cap, Cerro Torre peak, and Lago Argentino, the largest lake in the country.

What is the best time of year to visit Mt. Fitz Roy?

The best time of year to visit Mt. Fitz Roy is during the southern hemisphere’s summer season, which runs from November to February. The summer offers the best climatic conditions, but the shoulder months of October and April are also good options to avoid crowds.

How challenging is the hike to Mt. Fitz Roy?

The difficulty of the hike to Mt. Fitz Roy is considered moderate to high. As you might expect of the highest mountain in Los Glaciares National Park, which rises 11,171 feet (3,405 meters) above sea level, the hike is long and steep— it's around 12.7 miles (20.4 kilometers) roundtrip and typically takes 8–9 hours.

What are the main hiking trails around Mt. Fitz Roy?

The main hiking trails around Mt. Fitz Roy are Laguna de los Tres, the most popular trail, which is 12.7 miles (20.4 kilometers) roundtrip, and Laguna Capri, an easier hike of around five miles (eight kilometers) roundtrip. Both routes offer spectacular views, but only experienced hikers should tackle the Laguna de los Tres trail.

Can you see Mt. Fitz Roy without hiking?

Yes, you can see Mt. Fitz Roy without hiking. There are several viewing spots in the town of El Chaltén, and the drive from El Calafate to El Chaltén along Route 23 also offers some good views of Mt. Fitzroy on the approach to El Chaltén.

What should I pack for a hike to Mt. Fitz Roy?

A list of things to pack for a hike to Mt. Fitzroy should include a map, flashlight, basic first aid kit, food, water, and light and breathable clothing with additional layers, including a waterproof windbreaker. You’ll also need good, broken-in hiking boots, gloves, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Are there guided tours available for Mt. Fitz Roy?

Yes, guided tours are available for Mt. Fitz Roy, and hiking in the company of an experienced guide is always a smart option, even for experienced hikers. Your options include full-day hiking tours from El Calafate and multi-day trekking tours through Los Glaciares National Park.