Things to do in El Chaltén
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Laguna Torre
If the weather is good and the wind is down, make a hike to Laguna Torre a priority. The trail is accessed from El Chaltén, either from behind Hostería Los Ñires or from the artisans' market north of the town. After a gentle initial climb, it's a fairly level walk through tranquil beech forests and along the Río Fitz Roy until a final steep climb up the lateral moraine left by the receding Glaciar del Torre.
The Mirador Laguna Torre offers a breathtaking view of the majestic spire of 3128m Cerro Torre, rising out of the valley in the background. Look for the 'mushroom' of snow and ice that caps the peak. This precarious formation is the final obstacle for hard-core cl…
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Laguna de los Tres
Follow the main trail from Laguna Capri, which continues gently to Río Blanco, base camp for the Cerro Fitz Roy experience. From here it's a very steep climb to Laguna de los Tres (four hours one way). Bring loads of water and supplies - it's a toughie. But the extraordinary close view of Cerro Fitz Roy, as well as the eerily still glacial lake itself, make the effort worthwhile.
Be prepared for high, potentially hazardous winds and allow time for contemplation and recovery. Then scurry down 200m to the left of the lookout for an exceptional view of the emerald green Laguna Sucia.
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Laguna Capri
One of the many spectacular hikes near El Chaltén climbs from Camping Madsen to a signed junction, where a side trail leads to backcountry campsites at the lovely Laguna Capri. From here, you can explore dramatic windswept forests and small lakes, or use it as a base for more adventurous treks up the slopes.
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La Cervecería Brew Pub & Resto
That aprés-hike pint usually evolves into a night out in this humming pub with simpatico staff and a feisty female beer master. Savor a stein of unfiltered blond pilsner or turbid bock with pasta or locro (a spicy stew of maize, beans, beef, pork and sausage).
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La Tapera
As the name suggests, this new-on-the-scene eatery specializes in tapas. But wintry staples like pumpkin soup and grilled steak are also popular here; on cold days, you can sit so close to the open fireplace that you’ll have to peel off a layer.
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La Chocolatería Josh Aike
This irresistible chocolate factory tells the story of local climbing legends on the walls. It makes for an intimate evening out, with options ranging from spirit-spiked hot cocoa to wine and fondue.
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Parrilla Mi Viejo
If you’re not in the mood for creative cuisine after a day in the mountains, head to this traditional steakhouse for grilled meat, french fries, salads, and a large selection of wine and dessert.
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Patagonicus
The best pizza in town, with 20 kinds of pie, salads and wine served at sturdy wood tables surrounded by huge picture windows. Cakes and coffee are also worth trying.
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Cal-tur
For El Calafate (AR$70, 3½ hours), Cal-tur make the trip, but will not take advance reservations. Service is less frequent off-season.
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Estepa
Local favorite Estepa cooks up consistent, flavorful dishes like lamb with calafate sauce, trout ravioli or spinach crepes.
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Domo Blanco
Homemade ice cream made with fruit harvested from a local estancia and calafate bushes in town.
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Patagonia Aventura
Contact Patagonia Aventura about tourist launches from the Puerto Bahía Túnel on the north shore of Lago Viedma. The trip (per person AR$100, plus AR$50 transfer) takes in impressive views of the 40m Glaciar Viedma, grinding from Cerro Fitz Roy. Boat trips leave at 3:30pm and last 2½ hours.
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Fuegia Bistro
Favored for its warm ambience and savory mains, this upscale eatery boasts good veggie options and a reasonable wine list. Try the lamb in ginger sauce or trout with sage butter. It's also open for breakfast.
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Casa de Guias
A friendly and professional outfitter, Casa de Guias has guides who are Argentine Association of Mountain Guides (AAGM) certified and speak English. They specialize in small groups and simple camps. Offerings include mountain traverses, mountain ascents for the very fit and rock-climbing classes.
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