Vespignani Glacier
Trek
Experience the most impressive mountain expedition in El Chaltén: panoramic boat cruise on Lago del Desierto, 4 full hours exploring the Vespignani Glacier Reserve, and an unforgettable ascent with majestic vistas of the glacier and the north face of Mount Fitz Roy.
Vespignani Glacier Trek
4 Hours in Great Vespignani Glacier Reserve · Lago del Desierto
Tailored for hikers who wish to discover the reserve trails at an unhurried pace with plenty of time. You will have 4 full hours to stroll along the Green coastal path, take in the viewpoints of the Yellow Trail, and hike up to the glacier foot along the Red Trail.
Key Information regarding the Blue Trail
This trail must be completed in the company of a certified technical mountain guide. The extreme physical demands of the Blue Trail make it impossible to hike in a self-guided manner.
With Transfer · Full Day (08:00 AM to 05:30 PM)
Buy TicketWithout Transfer · Meeting at Punta Sur Pier (09:45 AM to 03:00 PM)
Buy Ticket
Vespignani Glacier Trek in pictures
Excursion Route & Map
Overland and lake route across Lago del Desierto and Great Vespignani Glacier Reserve (click to enlarge):
Detailed Program
We depart from our meeting points in El Chaltén traveling the 37 km that separate us from Lago del Desierto along a scenic unpaved gravel route, accompanying the De las Vueltas River. During the drive, our crew provides fascinating regional details and stops at scenic viewpoints along the valley.
Next, from Punta Sur Pier we sail for roughly 30 minutes admiring the Huemul and Crestón Glaciers to disembark at the Great Vespignani Glacier area in the lake's central sector. Once ashore, under safety supervision from our activity coordinator, you will enjoy 4 full hours to hike the reserve trails according to your preferred fitness level and desired challenge.
After a warm refreshment and hot chocolate at the dome, we sail back to Punta Sur Pier to start our return journey to El Chaltén.
Great Vespignani Glacier Area Trails:
⚠️ Mandatory certified technical mountain guide required (cannot be done self-guided).
Included Services
Operating Season
Cancellation Policies
CONDITIONS:
- If cancellation is made more than 24 hours before the service date, no fees apply.
- If cancellation is made within 24 hours prior to the service date, a 100% cancellation fee applies.
In the case of services provided to Receptivo Chaltén clients by third parties that are cancelled or interrupted for any reason, cancellation and refund policies will adhere to the policies of the operating provider. The same criteria apply to promotional rates.
Remarks: These cancellation policies apply uniformly to all transfer and activity services in the Lago del Desierto area (Great Vespignani Glacier Reserve).
Notes, Recommendations & Meeting Point
Important Notes
- Suitable only for individuals in good physical condition or with mountain hiking experience.
- Blue Trail: Requires certified mountain guide accompaniment. Self-guided hiking is not permitted on this trail (additional service).
- Schedule may vary slightly due to operational or weather circumstances.
- For much of the season, the blue trail may remain closed due to adverse alpine weather conditions.
Recommendations
- Trekking boots and suitable hiking pants
- Warm waterproof jacket / shell
- Hydration / water bottle
- Packed lunch / box lunch
Meeting Point
- If traveling with our transfer: we pick you up directly from your accommodation in El Chaltén (07:30 to 08:00 AM).
- If arriving by own vehicle or independent transfer: please present yourself 15 min prior to boat departure (09:45 AM) at Punta Sur Pier.
Design your Patagonia adventure
Our local team is ready to help you choose the ideal experience for your journey.