Los Glaciares National Park: complete guide to plan your visit
Located in southwest Santa Cruz, Argentina, Los Glaciares is the country’s largest national park (~726,927 ha). It protects Patagonian Andean forests, steppe and part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. In 1981 it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding natural beauty and active glaciers.
Where is it and how to get there? North and South areas
- South Area (El Calafate): gateway to Perito Moreno Glacier, boardwalks and boat tours on Lake Argentino. Park HQ is in El Calafate. Access via RN 11.
- North Area (El Chalten): Argentina’s trekking capital, with trails to Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre. Access via RN 40 and RP 41.
Trending searches: "Perito Moreno Glacier tours", "El Chalten trekking", "Fitz Roy hikes" and "how to get to Los Glaciares".
Climate and best time to visit
The climate is cold-temperate, windy and humid. Summer (October to March) offers longer days and better trail conditions. Winter brings snow and ice, and some circuits close. Tip: July and August have fewer services operating.
Landscapes and biodiversity
Forests are dominated by lenga, nire and southern beech; at lower altitudes you find calafate shrubs and notro with red flowers. Toward the east, steppe with coiron grassland prevails. Wildlife includes the Andean condor, Magellanic woodpecker, huemul, red fox and puma.
Highlights not to miss
- Perito Moreno Glacier: accessible boardwalks and balconies with panoramic views; optional boat ride to watch ice calving.
- Mini-trekking on Perito Moreno: a highly demanded experience walking on the glacier with specialized guides.
- El Chalten: iconic hikes to Laguna de los Tres, Laguna Capri and Laguna Torre, with views of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre.
- Lake Argentino boat tours: excursions to Upsala, Spegazzini and Onelli glaciers.
Main trails (approximate times)
North Area - El Chalten
- Laguna de los Tres: full-day hike (20-25 km), steep final ascent.
- Laguna Capri: 2-4 h round-trip, great views of Fitz Roy.
- Laguna Torre: 18 km round-trip (6-7 h) to the glacier and lagoon.
South Area - El Calafate
- Perito Moreno boardwalks: self-guided circuit with stairs and balconies.
- Panoramic viewpoints: multiple levels for photography.
Frequently asked questions
In the South Area of Los Glaciares National Park, 80 km from El Calafate via RN 11. Access by car, tour or transfer.
October to March offers longer daylight hours and most services running. Winter brings snow and partial closures of trails.
Laguna de los Tres (Fitz Roy), Laguna Torre and Laguna Capri are the top searches on Google Trends and in travel forums.
Boat trips to Upsala, Spegazzini and Onelli glaciers, available from El Calafate depending on season and operators.
