El Chalten Full Day to Lake of the Desert & Vespignani Glacier

Discover the stunning landscapes of Patagonia on the El Chalten Full Day to Lake of the Desert and Vespignani Glacier tour. Departing from El Calafate, this excursion takes travelers along the picturesque Route 40 before crossing Lago del Desierto to reach the breathtaking Vespignani Glacier reserve. With guided and self-guided hikes, a convenient lunch, and personalized attention from bilingual guides, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. But what secrets does this remote region hold, waiting to be uncovered by curious explorers?

About Your Stay

• This full-day excursion from El Calafate takes visitors along Route 40 to El Chalten, with a boat ride across Lago del Desierto to the Vespignani Glacier reserve.
• The tour includes self-guided and guided hikes with breathtaking views, as well as a lunch at a local restaurant.
• Round-trip transfers from El Calafate, a bilingual host and guide, and a group size limited to 30 travelers are provided for personalized attention.
• The tour is not suitable for travelers with back problems, serious medical conditions, or pregnant women, and a moderate fitness level is required.
• The tour has a 3.6 rating based on 5 reviews, highlighting the breathtaking scenery, well-marked hiking trails, knowledgeable guides, and a well-received lunch break.

Tour Overview and Highlights

Travelers embarking on the El Chalten Full Day Tour can look forward to an immersive experience exploring the stunning landscapes of Patagonia.

The full-day excursion departs from El Calafate, traversing the iconic Route 40 to reach the picturesque town of El Chalten.

Highlights include a boat ride across Lago del Desierto to the Vespignani Glacier reserve, where self-guided and guided hikes offer breathtaking views of glaciers and mountains.

Lunch at a local restaurant is provided, ensuring a well-rounded day of adventure and discovery in this remarkable region.

Inclusions and Logistics

The El Chalten Full Day Tour includes a convenient lunch box and round-trip transfers from El Calafate to the tour destination.

You’ll have a bilingual host and guide to accompany you at the Vespignani Reserve. The group size is capped at 30 travelers, ensuring personalized attention throughout the experience.

If your plans change, you can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour.

With these logistical details taken care of, you can focus on soaking in the stunning glaciers and mountain landscapes during the self-guided and guided hikes.

Pickup Information

The tour kicks off with pickup from various hotels in El Calafate.

Travelers can expect a 20-30 minute margin for hotel pickups, ensuring a smooth start to the day. The tour departs at 7:30 AM, allowing ample time to make the journey to El Chaltén and begin the exciting activities.

The pickup process is designed for convenience and efficiency, allowing guests to focus on the incredible experiences that await. Travelers will be accompanied by a bilingual host and guide, ensuring a personalized and informative journey.

Key pickup details:

1. Pickup from various hotels in El Calafate

2. 20-30 minute margin for hotel pickups

3. Depart at 7:30 AM

4. Accompanied by bilingual host and guide

Health and Safety Information

Although the tour is not wheelchair accessible, infant seats are available for those traveling with young children. Participants should be aware that this excursion is not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

| Health Considerations | Accessibility | Age Restrictions | Physical Fitness |

| — | — | — | — |

| Not suitable for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions | Not wheelchair accessible | Infant seats available | Moderate fitness level required |

| Not recommended for pregnant women | | | |

The scenic hikes provide breathtaking views, but may be challenging for some. It’s essential to consider your personal health and abilities before booking this adventure.

Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have shared their thoughts on this full-day excursion to El Chalten, providing a helpful glimpse into what to expect.

With 5 reviews and a 3.6 rating, the tour has garnered mostly positive feedback.

Key highlights mentioned include:

1. Breathtaking scenery, from the awe-inspiring glaciers to the picturesque mountain vistas.

2. Well-marked hiking trails that offer ample opportunities to soak in the natural beauty.

3. Knowledgeable and personable guides who enhance the overall experience.

4. A welcomed lunch break at a local restaurant, refueling hikers after their adventures.

Exploring the Picturesque Route 40

As travelers embark on this El Chalten tour, they’ll be treated to a scenic journey along the renowned Route 40, which winds its way through the heart of Patagonia’s breathtaking landscapes.

This iconic road offers panoramic vistas of towering mountain peaks, vast glacial lakes, and rolling grasslands. Along the way, guests can spot guanacos, ñandus, and other native wildlife against the backdrop of the Andes.

The drive itself is a highlight, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the region’s rugged natural beauty before reaching the charming town of El Chalten and the start of their hiking adventures.

Crossing Lago Del Desierto to Vespignani Glacier

The tour next takes guests on a boat ride across the serene Lago del Desierto, a glacial lake nestled at the base of the Andes.

As the boat glides across the tranquil waters, travelers soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

Upon reaching the Vespignani Glacier reserve, guests can:

1. Embark on self-guided hikes to get up close with the glacier’s icy façade.

2. Join a guided tour to learn about the glacier’s formation and the local ecosystem.

3. Snap photos of the magnificent peaks and valleys that frame the glacier.

4. Refuel with a tasty lunch before continuing the adventure.

Hiking and Sightseeing in El Chalten

After the tranquil boat ride across Lago del Desierto, the tour’s attention turns to the hiking and sightseeing opportunities in El Chalten.

Travelers can explore self-guided routes or join a guided hike through the reserve, taking in stunning views of glaciers and mountains. The well-marked trails offer a moderate level of difficulty, suitable for most fitness levels.

Explore self-guided routes or join a guided hike through the reserve, taking in stunning views of glaciers and mountains.

Highlights include reaching viewpoints with panoramic vistas and enjoying refreshments after the hike.

Throughout the day, the bilingual guide shares their knowledge, providing context and insights that enrich the overall experience.

Questions About Your Stay

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, layered clothing and sturdy hiking boots are recommended. Participants should dress for the weather and be prepared for varying temperatures and conditions during the outdoor activities.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and beverages for the tour. The provided lunch box is included, but you can supplement it with your own food if you’d like. Just keep in mind the moderate physical activity level of the hikes.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

There’s no minimum age requirement, but the tour isn’t recommended for infants or young children. Participants should be able to handle moderate hiking, so the tour’s best suited for older kids and adults in decent physical shape.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour does not have any restrictions on photography, so travelers can freely capture the stunning glaciers, mountains, and landscapes throughout the day. Snapping photos is encouraged to help create lasting memories of the incredible sights.

Can We Extend the Tour to Include Additional Activities?

Absolutely! Travelers can extend the tour to include additional activities like visiting historical sites, wildlife spotting, or trekking to viewpoints. The tour operator is flexible and can customize the itinerary to suit your interests.

Final Verdict On This Stay

Set out on a captivating journey through Patagonia’s stunning landscapes on the El Chalten Full Day to Lake of the Desert and Vespignani Glacier tour. Witness the breathtaking Vespignani Glacier, explore the picturesque Route 40, and enjoy guided and self-guided hikes amid awe-inspiring scenery. With personalized attention from bilingual guides, this adventure is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories of Patagonia’s natural wonders.