The Chalten Full Day Desert Lake Vespignani Glacier Trekking tour promises an unforgettable adventure amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia. Combining a scenic boat ride and a challenging trek, this excursion allows nature enthusiasts to witness the awe-inspiring Huemul and Creston glaciers, as well as the majestic Vespignani Glacier. With three distinct trails to explore and a focus on self-sufficiency, this tour offers an opportunity to take in the rugged beauty of the region. But what truly sets this experience apart? Let’s delve deeper to find out.
Key Points
- A full-day trekking tour that combines sailing to observe glaciers and hiking to the Vespignani Glacier in the Chalten region.
- The tour operates from October to April, excluding Wednesdays, and accommodates up to 10 travelers with a cost of $240 per person.
- The itinerary includes a 30-minute sail, a 37 km transfer to Lake Desert, and three trail options at the Vespignani Glacier, with a total exploration time of 2 hours.
- Travelers must bring their own food and water, as box lunches are not included, and hydration is essential due to the warm and dry desert conditions.
- Pickup and drop-off at Calafate hotels are included, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.
Tour Overview and Details
The Chalten Full Day Desert Lake Trekking tour is an exclusive expedition that combines sailing and trekking to the Vespignani Glacier.
It operates from October 1 to April 30, excluding Wednesdays, with a 7:00 am start time. The tour accommodates up to 10 travelers and costs from $240 per person.
Travelers will enjoy a 30-minute sail to observe the Huemul and Creston glaciers before transferring to Chalten.
A captivating 30-minute sail to witness the majestic Huemul and Creston glaciers before the trek to Chalten.
At the Vespignani Glacier sector, they can explore three trails ranging from 800 meters to 2 kilometers.
Pickup and drop-off at Calafate hotels are included, but passengers must bring their own food and water.
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Itinerary and Activities
An exclusive expedition combines sailing and trekking to Vespignani Glacier. Participants begin with a 30-minute sail observing Huemul and Creston glaciers. They then transfer to Chalten, covering 37 km to reach Lake Desert. At Vespignani Glacier, travelers can explore three trails:
| Trail | Distance | Elevation | Duration | Highlights |
|——-|———-|———–|———-|————|
| Red | 2 km | 200 m | 1 hour | Views of Fitz Roy Hill |
| Yellow| 1 km | 50 m | 30 mins | Panoramic viewpoint |
| Green | 800 m | 0 m | – | Coastal/forested area |
The tour provides refreshments before returning to Punta Sur Pier.
Food and Refreshments
Box lunch isn’t included in the tour price, so passengers must bring their own food and water for the day’s activities. The tour provides refreshments before the return trip to Punta Sur Pier.
Passengers should keep the following in mind:
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Pack a hearty lunch and snacks to sustain energy levels during the trek.
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Bring enough water to stay hydrated, as the desert environment can be warm and dry.
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Carry any necessary dietary items, as the tour doesn’t provide specialized food options.
The tour focuses on the breathtaking scenery, so being self-sufficient with food and refreshments is key to enjoying the full-day adventure.
Transportation and Pickup
Pickup and drop-off at hotels in Calafate are included in the tour.
Travelers take a self-guided transfer to Desert Lake via a scenic route along Rio de las Vueltas. The route offers breathtaking views as they make their way to the starting point of the trekking experience.
The tour doesn’t provide transportation beyond the pickup and drop-off, so travelers are responsible for their own transportation to and from the designated meeting location.
This allows for flexibility and the ability to explore the area on their own terms before and after the guided portion of the excursion.
Cancellation and Additional Information
The tour has some important policies regarding cancellation and additional information that travelers should be aware of.
Important tour policies travelers should know regarding cancellation and additional details.
For one, the tour is non-refundable if canceled within 4 days of the service date. However, modifications can be made if done at least 4 days prior.
Additionally:
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The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.
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The tour is subject to availability at the time of booking.
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Travelers must bring their own food and water, as a box lunch isn’t included.
These policies ensure the smooth operation of the tour and provide flexibility for travelers.
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What to Expect on the Vespignani Glacier Trekking Tour
The Vespignani Glacier Trekking tour begins with a 30-minute scenic sail observing the Huemul and Creston glaciers.
Travelers then transfer to Chalten, covering 37 km to reach the Desert Lake.
At the Vespignani Glacier sector, they’ll disembark and have 2 hours to explore three trails: the 2 km Red Trail with 200 meters of elevation, the 1 km Yellow Trail with 50 meters of elevation, and the 800-meter Green Trail with no elevation.
The trails offer views of Fitz Roy Hill, panoramic vistas, and an interpretive walk through coastal and forested areas.
Passengers must bring their own food and water.
Why Choose the Chalten Full Day Desert Lake Vespignani Glacier Trekking Tour
Why choose the Chalten Full Day Desert Lake Vespignani Glacier Trekking tour? This tour offers a unique combination of sailing, trekking, and glacier exploration.
Here’s why it’s a great choice:
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Exclusive expedition – This tour provides an exclusive experience, with a maximum of 10 travelers, allowing for a more intimate and personalized adventure.
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Diverse trails – The tour includes three distinct hiking trails, each offering unique perspectives of the stunning Fitz Roy Hill and surrounding landscapes.
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Comprehensive experience – Combining sailing, trekking, and glacier exploration, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the natural wonders of the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Gear and Clothing Are Recommended for the Trekking?
For this trekking, it’s recommended to wear proper hiking boots, dress in layers, and bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen. Bringing enough water and snacks is also advised to stay hydrated and fueled during the hike.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Level Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have age or fitness level restrictions, but most travelers can participate. It’s important to ensure you’re physically capable of the moderate hiking involved on the various trails.
Can I Bring My Own Hiking Poles or Are They Provided?
Hikers can bring their own hiking poles for the tour. Poles aren’t provided, but they’re recommended to assist with the terrain. Most travelers find them helpful during the trekking portion of the experience.
How Experienced Are the Guides Leading the Trekking Portion?
The guides leading the trekking portion are experienced local experts who are knowledgeable about the trails and environment. They’ll provide guidance and support to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Is There an Option to Explore the Glacier Without the Trekking?
The tour doesn’t offer an option to explore the Vespignani Glacier without the trekking component. The excursion is an exclusive expedition that combines sailing and trekking to access the glacier.
The Sum Up
The Chalten Full Day Desert Lake Vespignani Glacier Trekking tour offers an unparalleled adventure for nature enthusiasts. With a scenic sail, mesmerizing glacier views, and three distinct trails to explore, this self-sufficient trek is an unforgettable experience. The tour’s emphasis on independence and the breathtaking landscapes make it a must-try for those seeking an exhilarating outdoor excursion in the heart of Patagonia.
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